John “Jack” Bitzer, 88, of Lancaster, PA passed away on November 10, 2023 after a long illness. Jack was one of seven children of Clarence and Margaret Bitzer, who operated Bitzer’s Hotel in Bird in Hand. He was married for 68 years to the late Nancy (Kautzman) Bitzer. They had three children, Cynthia (Ned) Longenecker, the late Jeffery Bitzer, and Catherine Graver. In addition to his daughters, he is survived by three granddaughters, Mary (Stephen) Haynes, Kelsey Graver, and Victoria Graver, a great grandson, Colin Haynes, two sisters, Nancy Sweigart and Linda Mellott, and many nieces and nephews. He was a longtime member of the Southern Manheim Township Fire Department, serving as president from 1966 to 1975. While working for Bear Distributors, he was a frequent volunteer truck driver for the Make-A-Wish Mother’s Day Truck Convoy where he was also one of the founding members. He was also a member of the Lucky-7 hunting camp near Galeton in Potter County, Jack proudly displayed his triple trophy, a bear, turkey, and deer in the same year. Jack will be remembered for his love of gardening with Nancy, tinkering at his workbench, playing card games with friends, collecting antiques, and working on his cars. A memorial service will be held at St Matthew Evangelical Lutheran Church, 700 Pleasure Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601 on Monday, November 20, 2023 at 11:00 AM. A visitation will be held at the church from 10:00 AM until the time of the service. A private interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Make-A-Wish (1054 New Holland Avenue Lancaster, PA 17601) or Southern Manheim Township Fire Company (1399 Fruitville Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601). To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit: www.DeBordSnyder.com
Patricia Seifried says
RIP dear Uncle Jack. We will always remember. Never forget. He was “One of the good guys”. Condolences to his loving family. He will live in our memories and be thought of often. My parents send their deep heartfelt prayers and sympathy.
Donna Burkholder says
Cathy and girls, I am sad that this dear person is no longer physically in your lives. Knowing how special he was to all of you, he will remain in your warmest memories.
Ruel Reigle says
Sorry for your loss. I was his mailman for over seven years. In that time I conversed with him frequently. Very nice person. RIP
William Overly says
Though I did not know Jack well, my condolences to his family.
Vicky Suter says
Dear Cindy and Cathy, I was saddened to see ur Dad passed away. Both of ur families will be in my thoughts prayers as u work through this journey. I have fond memories of spending time with ur parents as we grew up. As the days unfold, may u find strength in each other.
Fondly,
Dick and Vicky
Kirchoff
Chrislyn Nicholson says
Mr. Jack will be remembered as a kind, hardworking, and helpful neighbor. He loved his family and took great pride in taking care of his home and beautiful yard. He was always willing to lend a helping hand whether it was snow removal, something needed to be fixed around the house, or just a kind word. Our sincere condolences to Cathy, Cindy and the Family as they were outstanding caregivers with their father. He is resting in God’s hands now, joined with his sweet wife Mrs. Nancy. We will always remember him with a smile and his memory will live on.
The Nicholsons
Ron Bejgrowicz says
Thanks Jack,
For helping me to become a volunteer at smtfc. To give back to the community
Randy Bixler says
I knew Jack at the Fire House was a nice guy lots of fun and laughs sorry to hear about his passing