George Ervin Bittner

George E. Bittner, age 93, of Frostburg passed away Wednesday, October 21 at Goodwill Retirement Center with his daughter by his side. George was born on June 5, 1933, in Finzel, MD, to Emmanuel G. and Ivy Goldie (Bucklew) Bittner.

George made a career of being an 18-wheeler over-the-road trucker for some 47 years. He was very proud to have never delivered a late load, to have never caused an accident and to have "delivered America one mile at a time," as one of his favorite hats indicated. His many experiences while behind the wheel provided hours of entertainment as he shared stories with his daughters and grandchildren. After retiring from his 18-wheeler career, he spent several hauling mail between Ohio and D.C.

George was member of the Frostburg Seventh-day Adventist Church. From the time he was a child, he would regularly use his beautiful, God-given voice to sing for his Lord - many times with his brother and best friend, Ken. He held many church offices over the years, including that of deacon, and was faithfully on-hand to help with church ministries, projects and maintenance. On May 25, 2024, George received recognition from the Church commemorating his holding the longest-standing membership of over 75 years. If the church doors were open, you could be sure he would be there. George loved his Lord, and lived with the hope of Jesus' soon return. He went to sleep in Jesus holding to that same hope.

George was preceded in death by his parents and by his loving wife of nearly 40 years, Shirley Marie (Green) Bittner; his brothers, Alvin and Kenneth Bittner, and sisters Laetta Bittner, Gerlie Lancaster and Lolita Llewellyn.

He is survived by daughters Roxie Harden (Gene) and Robyn "Dee" Carter; grandchildren, who adored their pap and his stories, Curtis Carter, Brady Harden, Carrie Bennett (Matt) and Logan George Harden (Jennifer); great-grandchildren Noah and Wesson Carter, Bryce and Brynn Bennett and Lilah Harden.

George grew up on a farm in Garrett County. He was no stranger to hard work and was willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it. But he was also a fun-loving guy who knew how to laugh. He was friendly to everyone and never knew a stranger. A special nephew expressed it well when he said, "You felt like you were the most important person in the room with Uncle George." He enjoyed watching NASCAR and football and attending dirt track races, but he loved being with his family most of all. He was blessing to our family in more ways than we could ever express. He thoroughly enjoyed meeting with his friends of the "morning breakfast club" at the Ponderosa, Denny's, McDonald's and Burger King.

George's family is so grateful for the care he received while a resident at Goodwill. There are a few caregivers that were extra special, and you know who you are. We are forever grateful to you.

Friends will be received at the Durst Funeral Home, Frostburg, Monday, October 26, from 5 - 7 and Tuesday, October 27, from 10 - 11. The funeral will follow immediately at 11:00 with Pastor Jim Buchanan officiating. Interment will be at the Green Family Cemetery following the service.