Arnold John "Aj" Woitha

Arnold John "AJ" Woitha, 55, of Port Clinton, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 11, 2025, at Ottawa County Riverview Healthcare Campus in Oak Harbor, Ohio, with his loving older brother by his side.

Born on August 20, 1969, in Detroit, Michigan, AJ was the cherished son of Arnold “Bud” Woitha and Janice (Hagerty) Woitha. Known for his meticulous nature, AJ was a consummate perfectionist, but it was his lighthearted spirit and sense of humor that truly endeared him to others. He was the family prankster—if you felt a tap on your right shoulder, you could count on AJ standing on your left, laughing heartily.

AJ’s work ethic was one of his defining characteristics. He dedicated his life to vocational habilitation programs, retiring in 2019 from Riverview Industries. His commitment to his work was matched only by his passion for his interests. When AJ loved something, he loved it wholeheartedly—whether it was being an avid Ohio State Buckeyes fan, a WWE enthusiast, or playing Wii bowling with intense concentration.

AJ found joy in the simple pleasures: Riding in a golf cart around his neighborhood, enjoying his favorite foods – McDonald’s cheeseburgers, pizza, chocolate pudding, and chocolate milk – and watching sunsets at the Catawba Island Club. His commitment to perfection was evident in the pristine way he kept his surroundings. If AJ had been in a room, you could be certain it would be spotless, with every cabinet precisely organized.

AJ’s warm presence and smile left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He was deeply loved by all who knew him, a truly special soul whose presence radiated joy. He had a rare and beautiful way of connecting with others that was pure, joyful, and full of light.

The bond between AJ and his brother Jeff was strong and uniquely their own, symbolized by a special 'brother' handshake that was a routine part of their greetings. While this handshake was commonplace when they saw each other, it was also performed when they left each other’s presence with their final brotherly handshake coming as AJ peacefully transitioned from this world into Heaven.

AJ is survived by his brother, Jeffrey Woitha (Judy); his sister, Denise (Scott) Ash; six nieces and nephews; and several great- and great-great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, John; and his nephew, Scott Ash.

At home, AJ received invaluable support from dedicated caregivers at ECI. Later, when he moved to Riverview Skilled Nursing Facility, he was under the compassionate care of its staff and Heartland Hospice.

Cremation has taken place. AJ will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. He is now reunited with his beloved mom and his best friend—his dad.

Although he leaves behind his brother Jeff, he now unites with his older brother John, who passed away just three months before AJ was born. AJ always carried a picture of John in his wallet and spoke of him as though they had already met—perhaps they had, in spirit. This long-awaited meeting marks the beginning of a new brotherly handshake years in the making.

With gratitude, the Woitha family entrusted arrangements to Gerner-Wolf-Walker Funeral Home & Crematory in Port Clinton and sincerely thank them for their kindness and compassionate care during this difficult time.