John Harold Kittleson

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John Harold Kittleson, age 97, of Minneapolis, died Sept. 27, 2002 after residing 10 months at Walker Methodist Health Center. Born in Mpls., he was known to the book community as a collector, appraiser, and expert in rare books. He established 3 major collections in the Special Collections division of the Minneapolis Public Library, where they are housed along with memorabilia. They comprise the 19th Century American Studies Collection, the Kittleson World War II Collection, and the Huttner Collection of Black Studies. Also made significant book donations to the Kerland Children's Book Collection at the University of Minnesota, the Sinclair Lewis collection at Macalester College, the Minnesota Historical Society, and the Minnesota Orchestra archives. A music lover, he donated a 16th-century vellum music manuscript to the Schubert Club's keyboard instrument museum. Known in the local community as ``Mr. Book'', he was a former trustee on the Minneapolis Public Library board and also a member of the Friends of the Library. He spent his final months perusing new books, following current events (with strong interest in politics and architecture) and enjoying visits from many devoted friends. His entire life was spent with books, not only the literary elements but also the art and craft of book-making. He was associated early with the business side at Dayton's Ulrich book shops, managing the famous book department at Powers' store, and with Random House publishers until his retirement in 1969. He belonged to clubs such as the Grolier, Skylight, Ampersand, as well as the Thoreau Society. He was the subject of articles in the local press including the Star Tribune, St. Paul Pioneer Press, Linden Community News, Twin Cities Magazine, Thoreau Quarterly, and Corocoran Neighborhood News, for which he also wrote an article on the history of that neighborhood which won an award from the Neighborhood Community Press Association for ``best historical feature''. Other awards include the Kay Sexton Award for outstanding contributions to the book community, WCCO's ``Good Neighbor'' award, and Active Seniors magazine's ``Volunteer of the Month''. He appeared on a KSTP radio call-in show on book collecting. Was devoted to promoting the accomplishments of Minnesota publishers, writers, booksellers and cultural values in general. Memorial gathering will be held Saturday, November 9, 10 am at the Cremation Society of Minnesota, 4343 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis, 612-825-2435. Memorials to the Minneapolis Public Library 19th Century American Studies Collection.

Published on November 3, 2002