PANTON — David Franklin Bitler, 81, passed away Saturday, April 18, 2020, at Helen Porter Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center in Middlebury.
He was born on May 10, 1938, in Lawrence, Mass., the son of Harold and Ruth Bitler. David was a member of American Legion Post 14. He served in the U.S. Air Force. He loved history and watching sports. David enjoyed traveling with his family and visiting historical sites, such as Gettysburg and the Football Hall of Fame. He had many hobbies — hunting, fishing, and camping — but especially enjoyed being with family and friends.
David is survived by his wife, Caroline (Coyle) Bitler of Panton; daughter Amanda Jo, her husband Fletcher Christiansen; two sons, David Bitler and wife Angela and Wayne Shea and wife Sandra; eight grandchildren; one great-grandchild; brother Paul Bitler and wife Doris; and sister Carol Hill. He was predeceased by husband Kenneth, and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be at a later date. David’s family wishes to thank all of the staff at the Porter Facility for their compassion and care. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Addison Home Health and Hospice, PO Box 754, Middlebury, VT 05753 or Helen Porter Healthcare Rehabilitation Center, 30 Porter Drive, Middlebury, VT 05753. To send online condolences to his family visit brownmcclayfuneralhomes.com.◊