Thomas E. Bitner, Jr.

Thomas E. Bitner Jr., 95, of Ligonier, passed quietly at Bethlen Home on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. Tom, or "TBit," was born September 4, 1929, in Ligonier, the son of Thomas E. and Melba "Tootie" (Kane) Bitner. Tom's father died when he was seven, and he moved from Shadyside, Allegheny County, to Ligonier to live with his grandparents, Edwin Ambrose and Arminta (Noel) Bitner. He often said he was the only child of two only children. Tom was drafted into the U.S. Army and served as a Sergeant in the Korean War. He attended the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown on the GI Bill, majoring in history. He was employed for many years as a social worker at Somerset State Hospital. He loved working with the mentally ill. Tom was gentle and kind. He had many loves and hobbies, including reading, relaxing with a Manhattan (on the rocks with Old Gran Dad and a dash of bitters), building model trains and airplanes, and attending the Rolling Rock Races, Highland Games, Fort Ligonier Days and Gettysburg Days. He kept season tickets to Pitt football games. Tom loved the social life of Ligonier and had many friends, many of whom he sadly outlived. He had a fondness for animals and telling stories, especially those of his two great-grandfathers, both of whom served in the 11th PA Infantry during the Civil War. He loved trips to Gettysburg, where he always visited the 11th PA Monument to say "hello" to the regiment's mascot, Sallie - the dog who faithfully traveled with her soldier companions. Tom is survived by many friends, in both Westmoreland and Somerset counties, including Linda Marker, who cared for him and sneaked chocolate shakes into the nursing home for him to enjoy in his final years. A memorial service will be held Sept 28th at 2:00 PM at Mt. Union Church, with inurnment at Ligonier Valley Cemetery at a later date. Thank you to the staff at Bethlen Home, who took good care of Tom during his final years. Memorial donations may be made in his name to Mt. Union Church, 1428 Casselman Road, Rockwood, PA 15557; or Concordia at Bethlen, 66 Carey School Road, Ligonier, PA 15658.