U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla.:
"I am deeply saddened by Daves passing. Dave was a colleague and a friend whom I was privileged to work with during our years together in the Florida Legislature.
When Dave made public his diagnosis this past April, he put his faith in God to give him the strength to continue working and cherishing each day as a blessing. Thats the Dave Bitner I got to know over the years, and thats the Dave Bitner I will always remember.
My wife Jeanette and I send our condolences and prayers to Daves wife, Wendy, along with the rest of his family.During this time of grief, I hope they find strength and peace in Gods love.
Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus:
Sally and I are deeply saddened to learn the news of Chairman Dave Bitners passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Daves family as they mourn the loss of a dedicated husband and father. To his beloved wife Wendy, I extend my deepest condolences.
Everyone that knew Dave will long remember his dedication to Florida, our party and our country. After being diagnosed with Lou Gehrigs disease, Dave fought back with courage and strength. His remarkable spirit will be missed.
Sharon Day, co-chairman of RNC:
With a heavy heart I wish to convey my thoughts and prayers for my friend Dave Bitner. The passing of this wonderful person and leader is terribly sad and a personal loss for me and for the many who called him a friend.He was a man of virtue and principle with a true servants heart.
"His love and commitment to the Republican Party was only exceeded by that which he displayed daily for his wonderful wife, Wendy. While they fought this horrific disease, Wendy stood by his side and together they taught us about fighting the good fight. I urge everyone to take a moment and offer a prayer for Dave and Wendy in this difficult time.
Paul Senft, Florida National Committeeman:
It has been a true honor to work with Chairman Bitner. Dave loved his work, but his family always came first. His character is truly an example to us all.
Jeff Atwater, Florida chief financial officer:
Today, we lost a statesman and public servant. Dave Bitner was a man of great character who knew what it was like to serve in the minority and majority party, and was able to lead with value and principle. His love for people overshadowed his need for politics.Chairman Bitners dedication, strength, love for Florida and his service-minded approach to leadership will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with Wendy and their family during this very difficult time.
Adam Putnam, Florida agriculture commissioner:
I remember Dave Bitner as a warm, gregarious and larger-than-life figure who was a champion for free enterprise in the Legislature and an example of inner strength. His faith and spirit were on display in these recent, difficult months for all to witness. Dave and Wendy have shown us how to be courageous and demonstrate character in the face of adversity. His passion for Florida and fellow man was contagious. My thoughts and prayers are with Wendy and the rest of the Bitner family.
Florida House Majority Leader Carlos Lopez-Cantera, R-Miami:
Chairman Bitner will be greatly missed as a husband, father and unselfish civic leader of the state of Florida. He was a shining example of true servant leadership. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Bitner family during this difficult time.
State Sen. John Thrasher, R-Jacksonville:
It is with profound sadness that I send my condolences to Wendy Bitner and her family in the untimely loss of Dave.My wife, Jean, and I are heartbroken over the loss of this good man, as I know so many others across Florida are, as well. Dave was a great public servant and a great leader for our state and party. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten.
State Rep. Will Weatherford, R-Wesley Chapel:
Today, Florida suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of former Representative and RPOF Chairman David Bitner. In stature and heart, Dave was a giant. Throughout his life, every endeavor he took on was done so with passion, endurance, and resilience. His battle with ALS was no different. While we mourn for a life lost far too early, we are thankful that Dave is not suffering any longer.
I join with the many that had the privilege of calling Dave a friend to honor this great Floridian. Our prayers for comfort and strength remain for Daves beloved wife Wendy. Her love, faithfulness, and devotion to Dave are an example to all of us.
Adam Hasner, Republican candidate for U.S. Senate:
"This is a sad day for the state of Florida. Dave Bitner wasn't just a splendid public servant and dedicated, conservative Floridian, he was also a dear friend. His leadership and unbending strength will be missed for years to come.
"Both Jillian and I send our deepest sympathies and prayers to Wendy and the entire Bitner family."
Contact Kenric Ward at kward@sunshinestatenews.com or at (772) 801-5341.
