DIXON – Jay N. Kitzmiller, 74, of Dixon, passed away on Friday, July 14, 2017, at his home in Dixon, with his loving wife of 53 years, Shirley, by his side. He retired from Quebecor Printing as a lead pressman in 2002, after 40 plus years of dedicated service.
Jay was born Nov. 1, 1942, in Oregon, to Nevin D. and Dorothy (Nichols) Kitzmiller. He was a 1960 graduate of Mount Morris High School. He married Shirley Keister on Aug. 24, 1963, in Mount Morris. Affectionately known as “Kitzy” by his closest friends, Jay touched many, many lives in a positive way. His passions were his family, bowling, stockcar racing, the Chicago Blackhawks, Fighting Illini basketball, and the Chicago Cubs. Jay never met a person that he didn’t make a friend. A simple trip to Walmart turned into a two-hour adventure because he always ran into a friend. Jay also had an impact on the youth in Dixon, as he coached youth baseball for many years. Many kids still call him “Coach.” He will truly be missed by everyone.
He is survived by his loving wife Shirley; his daughter, Barbara (Dennis) Budzitowski; his son, Randy (Justina) Kitzmiller; his grandchildren, Brandon (Sara Harris) Elmendorf, Emily Kitzmiller, Nevin Kitzmiller, Avery Kitzmiller, Jackson Kitzmiller; great grandson, Carter Elmendorf; his siblings, Ellen Harrill, Charles Kitzmiller, Cheryl (Marv) Lundquist, Alice (Marv) Leopold, David Kitzmiller; and many loving nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Nevin D. Kitzmiller and Dorothy (Nichols) Kitzmiller; and his sister, Shelby (Kitzmiller) Helton.
Visitation was from 3-6 p.m., on Tuesday, July 18, 2017, followed by a 6 p.m., funeral service at Preston-Schilling Funeral Home, Dixon, with Rick Harrill, officiating. Private burial of cremains will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Dixon, at a later date.
In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established.
Condolences may be sent to www.prestonschilling.com.
