Brian Graham Bitzer of St. James passed away suddenly on Friday December 10, 2001 at the Columbia Regional Medical Center in Columbia, Mo. He was 66 years 6 months and 16 days of age.

Brian was born May 25, 1944 in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania the son of the late Lloyd L. and Ruth Hilda Graham Bitzer.

Brian Bitzer is survived by his brothers: Joseph T. Bitzer and wife Kathy of St. James; David Bitzer and wife Diane of Brighton, TN and Eugene Bitzer of Wimereoux, France, along with one sister: Beverly Schmit and husband Ernest of Wakefield, Rhode Island. Nieces and nephews further survive him: Becky, Brian, Branson, Susan and Eve.

Brian Bitzer was an Aviation Mechanic by trade, and graduated from Parks Aeronautical College in Illinois. Brian was a person who gave of himself to many causes in our community. He was currently the Post Commander of the St. James American Legion 607, fulfilling the duties of a commander and also instrumental in the restoration of the Friendship School House. He could be seen helping putting up the flags in St. James on our countries Patrotic Holidays, along with helping with Veterans at Camp Brimshire. Brian was also the chairperson in charge of the Sports Club Toy Drive for this year and helped with many fundraisers.

Services
Brian Bitzer was in state Saturday evening December 11, 2010 at the Jones Funeral Home with Honor Guard from the Salem American Legion Post 99, standing guard.

Ceremony for Brian Bitzer was conducted on December 12, 2010 at the Missouri Veterans Home Chapel in St. James with Rich Hashagen, Chaplin of the St. James American Legion Post 607 officiating. The United State Air force along with St. James V.F.W. post 5608 and St. James American Legion 607 provided Military Honors. Burial will be in the family plot at the Union Dale Cemetery in Pittsburg Pennsylvania.

Memorial may be given to the St. James American Legion Post 607.

All arrangements are under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home in St. James.