BITNER, Eleanor Louise

The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Arizona Friday, January 24, 2003 Eleanor L. Bitner, 86, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 20th, 2003. An Arizona native for 86 years, she moved with her parents from Steeleville, Ill. when she was only three months old. She grew up in the Central Corridor of Phoenix on her family's citrus ranch and attended Phoenix Union High School and the University of Arizona. She later married Barclay Bitner at her parents' home on North Central Avenue. During the war, she briefly worked for the State of Arizona in the Department of Economic Security at the Capitol. She and Barclay later had a son and prospered in many different businesses as entrepreneurs. They were married for 58 loving years when Barclay passed away in 1995. Eleanor was also a member of many community organizations throughout her life in Phoenix - The Kachina Women's Club, PEO, and the Garden Club to name only a few. She was a woman who personified grace, elegance, dignity and charm. Anyone who knew her was touched by her generous spirit, unwavering loyalty and true friendship. She was known as a genuine woman and set the example for her family. She is survived by her devoted son, Charles, and her loving grandchildren, David and Annie. A loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend, she will be greatly missed by her family and many friends. A memorial service in remembrance of Eleanor was held at Hansen Mortuary Chapel on North 7th Street on Friday, January 24th at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 East Flower Street, Phoenix, Az., 85014-5669. Courtesy of Pat Wilson