Robert R. Bitler

Robert R. Bitler, 60, of Emmaus, PA passed away Friday, December 5, 2008 at Lehigh Valley Hospital, in Allentown after a valiant fight with cancer, surrounded by his loving family. Born January 27, 1948 in Bethlehem, he was the son of the late Catherine Boyle and Kenneth Bitler. He was married to Bridget Pesaresi Bitler with whom he celebrated 21 wonderful years of marriage this past August 21st.

Bob worked for the Bethlehem Steel Corporation for 36 years as a foreman. He spent 29 years at the Bethlehem Plant and seven years at the Burns Harbor Plant. After retiring from the Bethlehem Steel he went on to work for the Levy School Bus Company as the safety manager. He previously worked as a contractor for his company New Valley Homes. Bob proudly served his country for 16 years in the United States Marine Corps achieving the rank of Gunnery Sergeant.

Bob was a 32nd Degree Mason and was active at the Greenleaf Lodge in Allentown. He was an avid golfer and loved woodworking. He was a great husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend to all who knew him.

In addition to his wife, Bob will be lovingly remembered by his son, Robert M. Bitler and wife Erin of Allentown, daughters: Janine wife of Timothy Reppert of New Tripoli, Betsyann Dunn of Downingtown, and Carly Bitler of Emmaus, brothers; Donald Bitler and wife Karen of Lewes, DE and Kenneth Bitler and wife Marcella of Avon Park, FL, sisters; Marianne Bitler of Bethlehem and Karen Jones of Tucson, AZ. He will also be remembered by his three grandchildren: Charles M. Nolan III, Hannah K. Dunn, and Christopher R. Ohmacht.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Bridgett Bitler and a sister Mildred Girard.

SERVICES

A viewing will be held on Monday December 8, 2008 at Connell Funeral Home 245 E. Broad St. Bethlehem, PA 18018 from 4-7 PM followed by a service at 7 PM in the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made in Bob's name to Marine Toys for Tots Foundation 18251 Quantico Gateway Dr., Triangle, VA 22172