Joshua Michael Ditmer, 48, died in Quincy, Illinois, on July 30, 2025, and went to eternal life.
Josh was surrounded by a large group of witnesses in the final days before he passed away from rapidly spreading metastatic cancer. These included his lifelong friends from Asbury College and Duke University, his close friend Samantha Gwartney, his brothers Matt and Jon, his sons Caleb and Micah Ditmer, and his co-parent and final caregiver, Danyelle Trexler.
Josh was raised in Kokomo, Indiana, and was born on April 13, 1977. He was Marilyn Wilson’s nephew and the son of Pamela and Larry Ditmer. He later graduated from Asbury College with a Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministry and Duke University with a Master of Divinity. He served churches in Indiana, Arkansas, and Illinois for the majority of his career as an ordained United Methodist pastor. Josh was particularly well-liked as a clergyman because of his ministry with the ill and dying and pastoral visits. He later rose to prominence as a part of the Dot Foods team in Mount Sterling. Josh was referred to as “preacher man” at Quincy’s North End Tavern, one of his favorite places.
Josh was well-liked by his family and friends because of his sardonic humor, dry wit, and capacity to find humor in nearly any circumstance. Josh was a cheerful and empathetic buddy who always made people laugh and listened intently without passing judgment. In his spare time, he played the guitar, sang, and chatted with pals while listening to classic rock and treasured hymns.
However, Josh discovered his greatest and most authentic calling as their father when Caleb and Micah were born. Josh was a remarkable father: dependable and consistent, kind and caring, and the perfect supporter of their passions. He enjoyed playing, drawing, and wondering with Caleb and Micah. He frequently wore a T-shirt that the lads had given him. Josh was a hero to the boys, and the three of them enjoyed watching superhero movies.
Josh Ditmer will be missed as an exceptional father, a guy of strong faith and great compassion for others, a dependable friend, and a faithful and committed co-parent.
On Saturday, August 9, family and friends will assemble at Vermont Street United Methodist Church, 818 Vermont St., Quincy, for a reception at 1:00 pm and a funeral at 2:00 pm, officiated by Rev. Brian Jones. Josh shared your belief that you should come before God. Please do not feel compelled to dress up for the funeral in honor of this sincere belief.
All Josh’s loved ones are welcome to celebrate his life at North End Tavern, located at 1130 N 24th St. in Quincy, following the service.
Memorial donations to Danyelle Trexler for Caleb and Micah’s education fund may be made in place of flowers. You can make a memorial donation online at https://memorials.hansenspear.com/.
Hansenspear.com
The arrangements are handled by Hansen-Spear Funeral Directors.
