John “Jack” Bitzer

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