Michael StitzelMelbourneMichael Patrick Stitzel, DVM, 57, of Melbourne, died Saturday, June 3 at Wuesthoff Medical Center, Rockledge, FL surrounded by his loving family.He was born on August 7, 1959 in Hackensack New Jersey. Michael graduated from Eau Gallie High School in 1977, the University of Florida with a degree in Animal Science in 1981, and from The Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1987.Michael established the Melbourne Animal Hospital in 1988 and practiced there until 2000.Michael was active in sports while in school. As a member of the Eau Gallie Rotary Club, he was selected for the prestigious honor of a Paul Harris Fellow.Michael fought a courageous battle with a chronic medical issue for nearly 20 years. His family greatly appreciates the compassionate care of his physician, Nabil Aziz MD over the past 14 years, along with the nursing staff at Solaris Health Center, Merritt Island, the ICU nurses at Wuesthoff and his many private duty caregivers that served him over the years.Michael is survived by his parents Robert & June Stitzel, his wife Susan Knowles Stitzel and daughters, Sarah Rita and Rachael June, all of Melbourne, Fla. Brothers, Rob(Rhonda) and Dennis (Patty), also of Melbourne, Fl. Michael is also survived by multiple nephews and nieces.A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 10 at 11:00am at St. John's Episcopal Church, 610 Young Street, Melbourne, FL 32935.In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to the South Brevard Humane Society, 2600 Otter Creek Ln, Melbourne, FL 32940.