Herman Bitsoe Sr., of LeChee, Ariz. went to be with his eternal family on August 16, 2018 after fighting a long battle with cancer. He was born on September 1, 1937 in LeChee, the son of Roy Nez and June Tso of LeChee.
He attended school in Tuba City and Chilocco, then moved to Los Angeles, Calf. where he studied carpentry and joined the Carpenters Union. He became a master carpenter, building homes and businesses in Los Angeles, including the homes of movie actors Glen Ford and Amanda Blake. He met his wife and best friend Jeannie Martinez in California where they began a marriage that lasted 55 years until his death.
They lived in Santa Monica for 23 years, then moved back to LeChee where they raised their six children. Herman Sr. worked in Page, Flagstaff and the Navajo Nation building homes and businesses. He also was employed by Transport Auto in Page.
Herman accepted the Lord in October, 1993 and was a part time pastor at the Nazarene Church of LeChee until his death. Even when he became ill 5 years ago, he continued to spread the Good Word.
Herman was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle and grandfather. Always there for his family, friends and even strangers, Herman helped those in need. He had a huge heart an utilized his carpentry skills to give back to his community and built three sturdy homes for his family. He was modest and wise, offering guidance to other sand he had a great sense of humor. His strength, both physical and spiritual, will be greatly missed by family and friends.
Herman Bitsoe Sr. was preceded in death by his son, Herman Bitsoe Jr., three brothers and parents. He is survived by his wife Jeannie Bitsoe, his children Hermicia, Edwin, Herlinda, Eli and Leon Bitsoe of LeChee; sisters Mary Castillo of Mesa, AZ, Grace Blackwater of CA, five grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and one great, great grandchild.
Funeral services are Saturday, August 25 at 10 a.m. at LeChee Nazarene Church. Donations to assist the family can be sent to Jeannie Bitsoe, care of National Bank of Arizona, PO Box 1717, Page, Ariz. 86040, attention K. Damron.
