Mildred Elizabeth Bitzan

Mildred Elizabeth Bitzan, a woman of remarkable strength and unwavering dedication, passed away on June 15, 2024. Born on July 19, 1931, at her family's home in Urbank Mildred's journey was defined by love, faith, and a deep-rooted commitment to her family.

Growing up, Millie graduated from Brandon High School with a thirst for knowledge and a strong foundation for the life that awaited her. She embarked on a fulfilling career path that saw her working on the family farm where she helped milk cows and feed chickens for many years, tending to the land even in the absence of modern conveniences like electricity. Having 13 children, she sewed clothes often for herself and her children. Her resilience and hard work ethic were truly unparalleled.

Millie's culinary skills were legendary; she had a unique way of cooking by taste, ensuring that every dish she prepared was filled with love and individuality. The students at Brandon High School were lucky to have her as a cook for many years. Her prowess in the kitchen was matched only by her baking talents, leaving all those who sampled her creations in awe.

Outside of work and home, Millie found joy in volunteering at the hospital and spreading kindness wherever she went. She cherished moments spent watching her husband Don perform with his polka band, The Blue Knights, bowling with her great friends Ray and Evelyn then Bill and Donna and engaging in friendly games like Words with Friends, cribbage, and 313 with dear friends.

On September 28, 1949, Millie married the love of her life, Donald Bitzan, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Urbank. Their union was blessed with 13 children, marking the beginning of a lifetime filled with shared experiences and love.

Mildred was not just a devoted wife but also a nurturing mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who poured unconditional love into every aspect of her life. She also had a special love for all the family pets who were an essential part of her grieving process after the passing of her beloved husband Don. Her faith was an integral part of who she was; actively involved in St. Ann's Catholic Church, she belonged to Christian Mothers, taught religion classes for young children, and exemplified grace and compassion in all she did.

As Mildred bids farewell to this world, her memory lives on through her surviving family: loving children; Gregory Bitzan, Kathy (John) Weber, Patricia Bitzan, Don Bitzan Jr., Jean (Tom) Singerhouse, Larry (Teresa) Bitzan, John Bitzan, Mary (Dan Olson) Bitzan, Jerry Bitzan, Doug (Dawn) Bitzan, Robert (Dawn) Bitzan, Joe Bitzan, and Jen (Steve) Michels. She also leaves behind 21 cherished grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, sister: Naomi Rodgers and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends whose lives she touched with her warmth and generosity.

The services celebrating Mildred Bitzan's life will be held at Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria for visitation on June 20th from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Visitation will continue at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Brandon on June 21st from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM.

Mildred Elizabeth Bitzan leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and unwavering dedication—an extraordinary woman whose impact will be felt for generations to come. May she rest in eternal peace.

In lieu of flowers Millie’s family would like donations to be made to St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Brandon.