Vivian Irene Bittinger

Vivian Bittinger, of Kingsville, Texas, was born on February 6, 1928, at her family’s home near Roann, Indiana, and died peacefully at the age of 93 in her home on December 8, 2021 surrounded by the love of 15 members of her family.

In 1949, Vivian married B. Stanley Bittinger, whom she met while they both were attending Manchester College in Indiana.  They had been married for 72 beautiful years.  Shortly after they married, Vivian and Stanley spent three years in Castaner, Puerto Rico organizing and operating a community center as part of a Brethren Service Project. Their two sons were born while they were in Puerto Rico.  

Vivian received a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Manchester College. She was the valedictorian of her class.  She later obtained a Master’s Degree in Latin American Studies from the University of Texas and a second Master’s in Spanish from A & I University.  During her career in education, Vivian taught classes at the elementary school, High School and College level.

Vivian loved to travel. She, Stanley and their friend Beverly Jones saw much of the United States and Canada on trips in their RV. They also traveled extensively in Europe and South  America. Additionally, she and Stanley made several trips to Australia and New Zealand to visit their son, Steven and his family.

Vivian is survived by her husband, Stanley; her two sons: Steven Bittinger, of Canberra, Australia, and Craig Bittinger, of Austin, Texas; five grandchildren and five great grandchildren; and her sister, Miriam Jackson, of Montoursville, Pennsylvania.

Vivian was a member of the Church of the Brethren in Falfurrias, Texas. She was also an active member of the Texas Retired Teachers Association.

Vivian is remembered for her nurturing and loving spirit. Her family, students, neighbors and friends treasured her accepting and forgiving character more than anything else about her. She
profoundly impacted many lives.

Plans for a memorial Service are pending.

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