Jo Ann and recently departed Lloyd Bitzer were married for 63 years. During their years together, they built a home on land in the Town of Verona on Shady Oak Lane. They also built a friendship with former Madison Parks Conservation Supervisor, Russ Hefty. This friendship and a common love of our land were instrumental in their donation of conservation land to the City of Madison Parks Division.
 
The Bitzer’s gift of 8.28 acres, while not currently accessible to the public, is a significant contribution to the City of Madison Parks system. By serving as a future segment for the Ice Age Trail, this family gift will contribute to the advancement and enlargement of conservation lands in Madison Parks.
 
The dedication area, to be named Bitzer Family Preserve, will honor their son, Jeff Bitzer, who passed in 2015.
 
“We are grateful for the Bitzer family’s gift to the City of Madison Parks. The value of this land is immeasurable and will be preserved in a way that continues to honor their wishes for generations to come,” said Eric Knepp, Madison Parks Superintendent.