Dr. Anya Bitterman obituary, death, Beloved Ophthalmologist and Community Icon, Passes Away: A Celebration of Her Life, Legacy, and Impact on the Oneonta Community
It is with profound sadness that we announce the tragic passing of Dr. Anya Bitterman on November 21st, 2024. Dr. Bitterman, a highly respected and dedicated ophthalmologist, served the Oneonta community for over two decades, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of her patients, colleagues, and all who knew her.
Dr. Bitterman opened her ophthalmology practice in Oneonta in 2002, where she quickly established herself as a compassionate and expert physician. Over the years, she cared for more than eleven thousand patients, helping them maintain and improve their vision. Her work, particularly in performing cataract surgeries and other specialized procedures, earned her a reputation for excellence.
Whether providing routine eye care or responding to emergency situations, Dr. Bitterman was always there for her patients, making a lasting difference in their lives. Beyond her technical expertise, Dr. Bitterman was known for her deep commitment to her patients’ well-being. She had a unique ability to connect with people, offering not just medical care, but also a sense of comfort and trust.
Patients often spoke of her exceptional bedside manner, noting how she made them feel heard and valued. Her genuine compassion and attentiveness set her apart, making her an invaluable part of the Oneonta healthcare community.
Dr. Bitterman’s influence extended beyond her role as a physician. She was a cherished member of the community, deeply involved in local initiatives and causes. Her selflessness and dedication to helping others were evident in both her professional and personal life.
She was often seen volunteering for health-related projects, offering her time and resources to better the lives of those around her. In recognition of her immense contributions, she was named an Honorary Citizen of Oneonta—an honor that reflected her devotion to the town and its people.
For Dr. Bitterman, Oneonta was more than just a place of work—it was her home. She formed strong, lasting relationships with her patients, many of whom became like family. Her passion for ophthalmology was driven by her desire to serve her community, to help people see the world more clearly, and to ensure that everyone received the care they deserved.
She was a true advocate for her patients, always striving to provide the highest standard of care. The loss of Dr. Bitterman has left a deep void in the Oneonta community. Her passing is felt by all who knew her—patients, colleagues, friends, and family.
A memorial service will be held at the Main Street Baptist Church in Oneonta on Wednesday, November 27, at 11 am, where friends and loved ones will gather to celebrate her life and the incredible impact she had on the world. Though Dr. Anya Bitterman is no longer with us, her legacy will endure. Her commitment to her patients, her community, and her family will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to helping others will live on in the countless lives she touched, and her memory will forever be cherished.
