Obituary of Robert James Bittner

Dr. Robert James Bittner, age 88, of Wisconsin Rapids, passed away Wednesday, December 16, 2015 at Ministry Saint Joseph's Hospital in Marshfield. Services will be at 6:00 P.M. on Monday, December 21, 2015 at Herman-Taylor Funeral Home. Rev. John Grohs will officiate. Visitation will be from 4:00 P.M. until the time of service at the funeral home on Monday. Robert was born on September 10, 1927 in Sauk City, WI to Clarence and Myrtle (Baumgarth) Bittner. Robert was united in marriage to Betty Wheeler on September 22, 1949 in Baraboo, WI; the couple was blessed with 61 years before she passed away on October 7, 2010. He attended Logan University where he studied Chiropractic Medicine in Saint Louis, MO graduating in 1956. Robert served his country honorably in the United States Navy but was called home shortly after enlisting due to family hardships. He opened Bittner Chiropractic in Wisconsin Rapids in 1957, where he continued to serve the community until his retirement in 1989. Robert served as the Wood County Coroner for eight years. Robert was a compassionate person who enjoyed caring for others. His caring nature extended to all members of the community, sometimes even pets. Robert loved spending time with his family; often taking them on adventures such as camping or visiting gravel quarries to go rock and gem hunting. He enjoyed spending time outdoors deer hunting and bass fishing. Robert was appointed by Wisconsin Governor Dreyfus to be a member of the Chiropractic Examining Board. He was an avid golfer and participated in a Channel 7 golf tournament. He was an active member of the Republican Party and Bull's Eye Country Club. Robert is survived by two daughters: Peggy (Edward) Meyer of Las Vegas, NV and Patricia (Dennis) Hall of Wisconsin Rapids; three sons: Dr. David (Sue) Bittner of Wisconsin Rapids, Ronald (Cindy) Bittner of Nekoosa and Russell (Patty) Bittner of Wisconsin Rapids; son-in-law John Lemke; 15 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Betty, daughter Janice Lemke, parents Clarence and Myrtle Bittner and his sister Betty Giebel.