Thurman L. Bitzell, 83, North Manchester, passed away at 2:45 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2014, in Peabody Healthcare Center, North Manchester.

He was born Sept. 5, 1931, in Wabash, to Raymond L. and Ruth L. (Gill) Bitzell. As a child, he and his father attended many horse shows and raced horses. He graduated in 1950 from Chester High School, North Manchester. He served in the US Air Force from 1951-1955.

He was a salesman for Heckman Bindery, North Manchester. He operated a service station in Huntington, for several years. He then was employed at Wayne Metal, Huntington, as a welder and retired after several years of service. Thurman was a member of the Moose Lodge, VFW, American Legion and Elks Lodge. He was an avid bowler and enjoyed racing motorcycles.

He is survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his companion: Edna Bitzell

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 SR 114 West, North Manchester. Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, at the funeral home with Pastor Mary Lu Mikesell officiating. Burial will be in Oaklawn Cemetery, North Manchester.

Memorial contributions may be made to Visiting Nurse and Hospice, 5910 Homestead Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46814.