In Memory of Stanley P. Bitel
Founder of Rowley Spring & Stamping
October 16, 1921 – May 22, 2015
A Founder. A Veteran. A Builder of Opportunity.
Stanley P. Bitel was more than the founder of Rowley Spring & Stamping — he was the embodiment of determination, discipline, and belief in the American dream.
In 1954, Stan started this company in the garage of his home on Rowley Street in Berlin, Connecticut. With a handful of machines — two coilers, four torsion machines, a spring grinder, and bench presses — he began building what would become a respected global manufacturing partner.
What started as a one-man garage operation grew into a thriving business rooted in craftsmanship, integrity, and community.
Early Life & Education
Stan was the son of Stanley and Anna (Kapish) Bitel, immigrants who settled in Southington, Connecticut. Raised in a family of seven children, he learned early the values of hard work, faith, and perseverance.
He graduated from the University of Connecticut — education that prepared him for leadership in both military and business life.
Service to Country
After college, Stan answered the call to serve, becoming a Naval Aviation Officer in the United States Navy during World War II.
His military service shaped the leadership principles he would carry throughout his life:
- Discipline
- Precision
- Commitment to excellence
- Loyalty to team
He was later laid to rest with full military honors — a fitting tribute to a proud veteran.
Building Rowley Spring & Stamping
Within a year of founding the company, growth required moving operations from his garage to Federal Street in Bristol, Connecticut.
In 1960, Stan purchased the former Bristol Technical High School building on Riverside Avenue — a bold move that positioned the company for long-term expansion. Under his leadership, Rowley Spring & Stamping grew into a world-class spring and stamping manufacturer serving hundreds of customers.
Stan often emphasized that success was never about one person — it was about building a strong team and investing in people.
His entrepreneurial courage continues to guide our company culture today.
Faith, Community & Leadership
Stan believed business success carried responsibility.
He served as:
- Trustee and long-time Lector at St. Paul’s Church
- Board member of the New England Spring & Metalstamping Association
- Board member and award recipient of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce
He was known for generously supporting community fundraisers and charitable causes, always stepping forward when help was needed.
Family & Personal Life
Stan was the beloved husband of Florence Kovitch Bitel. After her passing in 1987, he continued to honor her memory while remaining devoted to his family.
He was a proud father, grandfather, and friend. Outside of work, he enjoyed golf and camaraderie at several Connecticut country clubs — and even celebrated a hole-in-one at Wianno Golf Course on Cape Cod.
Continuing His Legacy: The Stanley P. Bitel Memorial Scholarship
Stan believed deeply in manufacturing education and skilled trades.
In his honor, the Stanley P. Bitel Memorial Fund Scholarship, administered through the Main Street Community Foundation, supports:
- Apprenticeships
- Technical and trade education
- Workforce development programs
- Four-year degrees in business or engineering tied to manufacturing careers
The scholarship reflects Stan’s lifelong commitment to opportunity, self-achievement, and strengthening American manufacturing.
His Lasting Impact
Stanley P. Bitel’s legacy lives on in:
- The thousands of parts manufactured with pride
- The careers built within these walls
- The families supported through meaningful work
- The students empowered through scholarship
From a garage on Rowley Street to a respected manufacturing enterprise, his vision continues to shape who we are.
We remain committed to carrying forward his values — integrity, craftsmanship, discipline, and community — every single day.
