Justin Armstrong Bitzer, 50, passed away on April 26, 2026, leaving behind a life with laughter, connection and genuine love for the people around him. Born January 7, 1976, Justin grew up in Washburn, Wisconsin, where he formed friendships that were among the most cherished of his life. He spent most of his adult years in Madison before returning to Washburn in recent years, reconnecting with the community that shaped him.

Justin will be remembered for his humor, his helpful nature, and his remarkable ability to make people feel welcome. He loved being around others and had a gift for turning strangers into friends with ease.

A devoted fan of the Wisconsin Badgers, the Packers and the Brewers, he never missed a chance to cheer on his teams. But nothing brought him more joy than watching his nieces and nephew play in their own games - he was their loudest supporter, their biggest fan, and their proudest “Uncle Justin.”

He loved being called “Coach” by the basketball and baseball players he mentored over the years. He took pride not only in their growth as athletes but in the people they became.

His competitive streak showed up in lighter moments too; he approached board games with the same enthusiasm he brought to sports. He loved to brag - with a grin - that he’d never lost a game of checkers. His heart and humor will be missed at family game nights.

He will be profoundly missed by the friends and family he leaves behind. In every crowd, around every table, and in every place where people gathered, Justin was right there in the middle - making things a little more fun and a little more connected.

He is survived by his mother, Heidi Bitzer; his siblings, Jana Bitzer, Bethanie (Joshua) Raines, and Rachel Bitzer; Grant (Mary Johnson) Bitzer; his nieces, Violet Raines, Tess Raines, and Eloise Bitzer-Cartwright; his nephew, Judah Raines; his incredibly beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins; and so, so many friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Jan Bitzer; and his best friend, Erik Gigstad.

A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Lodi

Funeral & Cremation Care

157 S. Main St.

(608) 592-3201

Justin A Bitzer

January 07, 1976 - April 26, 2026

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