Dennis E. Bitson, age 72 of Hesperia, passed away following a lingering illness on Saturday, June 29, 2013 at his home. Dennis was born on September 5, 1940 in Muskegon to Arthur and Cista (Rought) Bitson and later married Patricia E. Johnson on August 2, 1969 in Hesperia. Dennis started work at the CWC Textron Company in Muskegon at the age of 18 where he worked for many years until his retirement in 2004 as a truck driver. Dennis enjoyed vintage cars and bird watching at his home and also served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Dennis is survived by his wife of 44 years, Patricia of Hesperia; his sons, Troy Bitson of Hesperia; Bruce Bitson of Hesperia; his brothers, George (Lynn) Bitson of Fremont; Robert (Carol) Bitson of Shelby; his sisters, Joyce (George) Irons of Bliss, Michigan; Lois Aguirre and special friend Joe of Hart; several nieces and nephews; his mother-in-law, Blanche Herding of Hesperia. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Cista Bitson; his brother, Gary Bitson and his sisters, Audrey Palmer and Beatrice Mingle. Private graveside services were held on Tuesday, July 2, 2013 at the Otto Township Cemetery near Hesperia. Friends are asked to consider memorial contributions to the Oceana County Animal Shelter or Newaygo County Cares for a Cause for memorial contributions in memory of Dennis. Friends may send a condolence or share a memory with the family online at www.crandellfh.com