At Cornell University, Allen enjoyed participating in CUDS and he graduated in 1978 with a degree in Ag Sciences. After graduation, he worked for Cooperative Extension and USDA before joining Farm Credit. There he met his future wife, Jan, and they were married in 1990.
The Bitters bought a small farm outside Skaneateles where Allen’s menagerie grew to include goats, sheep, chickens, dogs and cats. Allen loved studying pedigrees and showing livestock. He was a licensed ADGA Judge for 40 years, and an ADGA Director for 15 years. In 2009, Allen was chosen for the ADGA Dairy Goat Pioneer award.
When three children came along, Allen juggled his livestock chores around being a stay at home Dad, a role that he embraced. Allen was a great Dad, a supportive husband, a good neighbor, and a friend you could count on.
Allen is survived by: his wife, Jan; his three children Kathleen (Sam) Rhoades, Susan Bitter, and Thomas Bitter; siblings Dan (Mary) Bitter, Suzanne Churchill, and Paula Mierop; and 16 nieces & nephews. He is predeceased by his mother Laura and father Victor.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, February 8th from 3 to 6pm at the Robert D. Gray Funeral Home, Skaneateles. A memorial service will be on Saturday, February 9th at 10am at the Borodino Church.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the New York FFA Foundation 9340 Long Pond Rd, Croghan NY 13327.http://www.nyffafoundation.org/contributions.html