Harry Hitzke, age 96, passed away peacefully Saturday evening, June 13, 2020, in his favorite recliner chair at his home in Bolingbrook, Illinois. Harry was born in Chicago on January 8th, 1924. Harry proudly served his country in both the Pacific and European theaters during World War II. After his military service, Harry married Beverly Poggendorf in Chicago IL. Harry and Beverly eventually moved to Hinsdale, IL where they raised 4 baby boomer children. After Beverly’s passing in 1982, Harry carried on in life enjoying time with his children and eventually his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In 1987, he married Sally Meyers and they shared life together in Arkansas for 16 years before moving to Bolingbrook where Sally passed away in 2007.
Harry retired in 1984 after 40+ years with Commonwealth Edison in Chicago. During his years there he worked in the office as a draftsman and also in the field as a construction supervisor overseeing utility projects throughout the City of Chicago. Harry enjoyed many activities including bowling, golfing, singing, dancing, playing cards, as well as coaching and participating in his children’s and grandchildren’s activities. Harry worshipped God regularly his entire life and was an active member at Grace Western Springs, Zion Hinsdale, Zion London AR, and Trinity Lisle.
He is survived by his four children; Greg (Lori) of Rockford, IL, Jeff (Diane) of Burlington, NC, Kim Pieper (Bill) of Bolingbrook, IL, and Sherry Meyers (Walt) also of Bolingbrook. Harry was the beloved patriarch of his family which included 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Late in his life, Harry cherished family gatherings the most and would watch, engage, laugh, sing, and pray with his beloved family.
Harry was preceded in death by his parents Otto (1961) and Louise (Sonnenberg – 1957) and his five siblings; Elmer, Raymond, Clarence, Doris, and Louise Triebull.
Harry’s final arrangements will be handled by Simplicity Funeral and Cremation Care. With his immediate family in attendance, Harry will be laid to rest alongside Beverly, his wife of 37 years, at Chapel Hill Gardens West in Oakbrook Terrace, IL.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Harry’s honor can be made to The Gary Sinise Foundation for veterans. www.garysinisefoundation.org.
Finally, at a future date, the family intends to host a celebration of Harry’s life – a life truly well lived!
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Greg, Kim, Sherry and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers go out for you and your families at this time as, although we celebrate your father’s long and cherished life, we understand you grieve at the loss of such a wonderful father and patriarch. May you be comforted knowing the fact that you will be reunited with your father again one day in the Church Triumphant!
It was truly an honor knowing Harry.
God’s blessings to you and your families.
In Christ,
I can’t begin to tell anyone what Uncle Harry meant to me. Though we haven’t seen each other for many years, he has always been in my heart. He was my Godfather and was always there to offer love and advice whenever needed. To my cousins … please accept Den’s and my sincere condolences in the passing of your father.
Sending you all our deepest sympathies and prayers ✝️. Our thoughts & prayers are with you all , as you remember Harry who was such a dear sweet & kind man. Heaven gained another angel.
Love from
Amy, Austin & Lindsey 🙏💜
Thanks Arlene. He was I think the last of that great generation and will be missed. But we were so blessed to enjoy life with him!
Jeff
We continue to send our thoughts and prayers. What an absolutely amazing example Harry was to all who knew him . We are the luckier for knowing him and striving to live up to his example. As well, we are very appreciative for his service to our country.
Greg and Family, You are so fortunate to have had him in your lives for so long and he was blessed to have such a wonderful family. God bless all of you and may you find peace in your memories.
With love,
Mary Kroll
What an honor to have met and known Harry. He was an honorable man from one of the greatest generations. Bob and I are so sorry for your loss but he was surrounded by wonderful family and I can’t think of a better way to go. RIP
Mrs. Pieper and Family
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief.
I only met Harry once, at Jeff and Diane’s wedding, and I knew then he was special. May his memory be eternal.
Polly
He was truly the “Best Man“ ever.
Appreciate your thoughts and kind words.
Jeff
So sorry to hear of Uncle Harry’s passing. Glad it was peaceful. The 16 years he lived here in Arkansas by us he truly was a ‘life of the party” guy. Always in a good mood and he will be missed by many. Our sympathies and prayers cousins.
Carrie
He loved his home and the years in Arkansas. Thanks for you kind words.
Jeff
We are sad to have lost a member of our combined families. Harry was loved by many because he was a kind and loving man. Our condolences to all.