Donald “Don” Edward Bitner, age 88, of New Castle, DE passed away peacefully surrounded by family and his loving wife on August 20, 2026.

Don was born in 1937 in the state of Pennsylvania. After finishing high school, Don enlisted in the Army and served our country proudly for 4 years.

He later became a hair stylist and barber and opened his own salon in Newark, DE called “White Mink” which stayed in business for over 60 years. Don truly enjoyed his profession and valued every relationship made while at work! Whether it was one his employees, or his favorite shampoo girl- his wife Janet- or one of his many loyal customers, there was not one person he didn’t come in contact with that didn’t appreciate the man he was while doing what he loved!

Don had a big heart, would converse with anyone that would listen, and cared deeply for his family and friends. It was no secret; Don was a big fan of the Dallas Cowboys. Despite being surrounded by a family of Eagles fans, he would cheer loud and proud and couldn’t wait to call the next day when his Cowboys beat the Philadelphia Eagles.

Aside from his passion for football, basketball, and family he loved food! There was not a family gathering, he wasn’t front and center at the food table asking the host- “got any munchies”? Whether he was at Rich’s pool or Delaware Park, Don couldn’t wait to see what was on the menu for him to enjoy while being in the presence of good company!

Don was preceded in death by his father Wilmer, mother Helen, sister Irene, and daughter Sherry.

He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years: Janet Bitner; brother: Lloyd Bitner; sister: Anamae; daughters: Renee Smith (Anthony Smith), Jordana Cook (Wayne Cook); son: Donald Bitner Jr. (Kim Bitner); and son-in-law: Richard Ranauto (Sherry Ranauto). Also present to cherish his memory are 7 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank all the care he received at Harmony Point Memory Care Center for the past 10 months in addition to Compassionate Care Hospice that were present throughout the remaining month of his life.

A graveside service will be held at Delaware Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery, located at 2565 Chesapeake City Rd. Bear, DE 19701 on Monday, August 31, 2026 from 1-1:20 pm.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be mailed to Fairwind Baptist Church, where Don was a loyal member, located at 801 Seymour Rd. Bear, DE 19701.