The legendary Billy B (William) Bitter, loved by the ladies and most men, died Friday March 7th, 2025, at Aurora St. Lukes Medical Complex in Milwaukee WI at the age of 82.
Born on October 30th, 1942, in Kenosha, he was the son of the late John and Bertha (Bruenning) Bitter.
A lifelong Kenosha resident he was educated in the schools of Kenosha and graduated from Bradford High School.
On June 27th, 1970, he married Fay Audrey Layton in Kenosha. She would precede him in death one day before their 50th anniversary.
He was employed at The American Brass for over 30 years before his retirement.
He was a long-time member of St. Thomas Aquinas Church before it closed and then was a member of St. Elizabeth Catholic Church.
Billy B loved his morning drives to Lake Michigan to watch the sunrise and listen to Elvis. He looked forward to hanging out with his friends during the day and watching the Packers on Sunday’s. He enjoyed summer cookouts and pool parties with his “kids” and grandkids.
“Grandpa” cherished his two granddaughters, often bringing them Kit Kats and doughnuts from Paielli’s bakery as well as random old coins or “treasure” from his stash of unique items he has collected over the years. He was always there at moment’s notice in case of emergency, if they needed a ride to or from school, or just a doughnut and a hug. He loved to play the “I love you more” game with them on the phone and then try to hang up before they could say it last. His “girls” held a very special place in his heart and he will be very missed.
He is survived by one son, Patrick and Missy Bitter (wife) of Pleasant Prairie; his two granddaughters Mary and Lauren; and his sister Betty as well as his extended family of cousins, nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Fay, his eldest son John, his brother John, and two sisters Shirley and Patsy.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday March 14th, 2025, at 10:00AM at St. James Catholic Church in Kenosha. (5804-Sheridan Road) Visitation will take place on Friday at the church from 9:00AM until the time of mass. Burial will take place at a later date.
Casey Family Options Funerals & Cremations
3016 75th Street Kenosha WI 53142
262-653-0667
www.caseyfamilyoptions.com
Mary (mare bear) Durkee says:
Billy B family
He was not only a great friend but also my “birthday buddy” born on the same day, we always called each other that day no matter what.
I also worked with him many years in the City of Kenosha Park as one of his supervisors.
Remember the Saturday mornings when he bartender at Cheers . Oh how he hated making bloody Mary’s, but he did make me one.
So many stories and good memories.
Rest in peace.