Gerald Bitner

Gerald J. Bitner

"Skip"

Age 62, of Lanark, formerly of Coal City, died Thursday, May 14, 2009 at Freeport Memorial Hospital. He was surrounded by his loving family when his short battle with a malignant brain tumor ended.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

Born April 11th, 1947 to Evelyn and Gerald C. Bitner, also formerly of Coal City. He graduated from Saint Procopius College Academy and was currently working for NIC as a Quality Control Inspector. Skip enjoyed camping, fishing, exotic vacations, and spending time with his family and friends.

Survivors include his wife Dawn. Mother, Evelyn Bitner of Ocala, FL. Mother-in -law Margie Shafer of Mt. Carroll, IL. Sisters; Sally (Neville) Mangra of Pierson, FL and Sue Kirchner (Jack Shannon) of Ocala, FL. Brother Terry Bitner of Coal City, IL. Brother in law; Eldon (Cindy) Shafer of Poplar Grove, IL. Children; Lisa (Roger) McCloskey of Dwight, IL, Heidi(Larry) Scaletta of Geneva, IL, Holly (Gary) Schmidt of Sycamore, IL, and Aaron(Melissa)Bitner of Clinton, IA. Step -Children; Kenneth Preston (Sheilah Burrington) of Shannon, IL, and Rich (Chrissy) Preston of Minooka, IL. Grandchildren; Kevin, Sam, Lauren, Shannon, Liz, Natalie, Allison, Trevor, Jenna, Hailey, and Marie, and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his father and two brothers-in-law.

A celebration of Skip's life will be held at 1p.m., June 6th at 6805 E. McArdle Rd. Coal City IL. in the United Methodist Church Hall. Bring your favorite stories and your most colorful "Hawaiian Shirt" to join with friends and family as we share memories of our beloved Skip.

Friends may sign the online guest book by logging onto: www.ReevesFuneral.com