Bernhard Rudolph Hitz (“Bernie) was born March 20th, 1940, in Portland, Oregon and passed away June 4th, 2026, in Canby, Oregon with Patrica (“Pat”) by his side. His family moved to Ridgefield Washington, and when he was 9 the family moved again to Woodburn, Oregon to a dairy. He graduated High School from Mt. Angle Prep and worked on the family dairy until 1967 when he was drafted into the Army and served two years stationed in Germany. In 1969 he returned to the family dairy and married the love of his life Pat in July. In 1970 they bought their first property and began farming. In 1972 they expanded and start “B&P Hitz Fruit Farm”, and for 54 plus years they have produced fresh fruits and vegetables for their customers, canneries, schools, and even the Portland Zoo. Bernie’s passion for farming was only rivaled by his love to banter and tease, and you could see a little glimmer in his eyes when he was trying to get your goat. When produce was in season or available in the farms cold storage the Fruit Stand was open faithfully 1:30-5:30 every day except Monday. He loved all the conversations and friendships formed with many of the customers.

The farm was not only his passion and livelihood but provided the home where Bernie and Pat raised their four sons. He loved his family and was a proud father. He had five grandkids that brought a new level of joy into his life. He enjoyed just being with them and also having them at the farm, teaching them and passing down his knowledge. A few weeks ago, he got to meet his great-granddaughter for the first time, and they were both all smiles.

He is survived by his wife Pat, of 56 years, his brothers Roy, Joseph, and Thomas (Linda), his sisters Melanie (Lynn) Shaures and Mary (Tony, (d)) Grillo, his four sons Josef (Nancy), Mikel, Tony and George (Trudy), grandchildren Jordan (Emily) Hitz, Michel (David) Sprouffske, Garrett (Cassie) Hitz, Augustus Hitz, and Samuel Hitz and great-granddaughter Hazel Sprouffske. He was preceded by his parents Ludwig and Elizabeth Hitz and his eldest brother Ludwig Jr. (Susan) Hitz.

A Rosary for the Deceased will be Friday June 26th at 12:30 pm St. Lukes Catholic Church, Woodburn, Oregon followed by the Funeral Mass at 1:00 pm, June 26th, 2026. Coffee/refreshments and desserts to follow. Arrangements by Simon-Cornwell Funeral Home, Woodburn. Private family entombment.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Holy Family Academy. (https://holyfamilyacademy.us/)