Elizabeth J. Bitzer, of Alexandria, VA, passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2009 at Manor Care Nursing Home in Alexandria from Parkinson 's disease. Mrs. Bitzer was born in Wilkes-Barre Pennsylvania. She was the daughter of the late George and Anna Marie (Schappacher) Proeller. She was married to the late Leo E. Bitzer.

Mrs. Bitzer was a member of St. Joseph's Parish in Lancaster during most of her adult life at 631 St. Joseph St.  She became a member of Good Shepherd Catholic Parish in Alexandria after moving over 15 years ago.  While in Lancaster, she was employed by Darrenkamp's as a grocery store clerk for over 15 years, and performed volunteer work with the church and cub scouts.

Mrs. Bitzer is survived by a son, Richard L. Bitzer, husband of Linda A., parents of Christopher, Ellen, and Jennifer all of Alexandria, a daughter, Ann Marie, wife of Dexter Newcomb of Scituate, MA., two sisters, Mary Halter and Rita Hill and a brother, Joseph Proeller, all of Wilkes-Barre, PA.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, August 24, 2009, at 11:00AM at Saint Joseph's Catholic Church, 440 St. Joseph St. Lancaster, PA 17603 with Msgr. Thomas Smith as Celebrant. Interment will follow at Saint Joseph's New Catholic Cemetery. Friends may call at the Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home Inc. 414 East King St. Lancaster, PA 17602 on Monday morning from 9:30-10:30 AM. Kindly omit flowers. Memorial Contributions may be made in Elizabeth's memory to Good Shepherd Housing and Family Services, P.O. Box 15096 Alexandria, VA 22309. Arrangements by the Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home Inc. To send an online condolence, please visit: snyderfuneralhome.com