Barbara Bittenbender, 1943-2020 A Life Remembered How do you describe a 4’ 10” powerhouse? Barbara Bittenbender had a huge heart and endless energy and spent her life thinking of others in a variety of ways that made a massive difference and contribution to the people in her local village, Weston Turville and beyond. She was born on 11 January 1943 in Detroit, Michigan to George & Jean Morrow. She met her husband Ed Bittenbender whilst studying maths at the University of Detroit in 1965. They married in 1966 and had two children, Monica and Ted. As an army wife Barb and family moved frequently, living in Germany, Norway, USA and the UK. Barb taught children in both the US Government School System and the UK system specialising in teaching children with behavioural problems or learning difficulties. Barb and Ed moved to Weston Turville in 1994 where her natural joie de vivre and sense of fun brought laughter and joy to many people in the village. She taught Maths (on a voluntary basis) to small groups
of children in the local school where she and offering welcome advice on many an became a legend not only for sharing her occasion. Her thoughtfulness extended to numerical skills but also for spoiling the giving neighbours plants on the birth and pupils with sweets and treats. death of their relatives all aptly named to match the event or person. Her prowess at teaching wasn’t just with children. She taught bridge from her home Barb was renowned for always wearing hats to many different groups including the U3A and her collection was huge and varied. She and decided to combine the enjoyment had would invariably wear a hat to match her outfit by many by hosting an annual bridge day even a swimming hat to match her swimsuit raising thousands of pounds for charity. in the aqua aerobics classes she attended! Bridge days weren’t her only charitable She was a member of the Red Hat society and input. Barb volunteered at various events enjoyed socialising within this group always such as collecting for the Royal British Legion donning a red hat and purple outfit. She loved annual poppy appeal, helping at church and dressing up for various occasions visiting village fetes and making wonderful soups neighbours bearing gifts as an Easter bunny, and delicious cakes for the monthly church Christmas elf or in a witch’s hat at Halloween. Her fancy dress wardrobe, including her lunches and afternoon teas. enormous collection of hats, was offered to Many other people benefitted from her many people to have a bit of fun. generous spirit and baking skills as Barb would often turn up out of the blue with The family would like to thank all those who cakes and cookies staying for a friendly chat. have been in touch or contributed since the Her kindness also touched many people announcement of her death in September. in the village by lending a listening ear Barb will be sorely missed.
Established for almost 15 years in Wendover – we are here to provide you with the best service and choice of local properties
DAVID PRICE & CO. Professional, friendly, local help at a fraction of usual solicitors’ fees
Wills Lasting Powers of Attorney Probate & Estates Simple Will £95 – Two for £150 One Power of Attorney £90 – Two for £160 Probate work - £60 per hour
I am happy to visit you at home or, if you prefer, to advise you by telephone, e-mail, post and video.
www.probateandestates.co.uk
01296 612955 www.wendovernews.co.uk
01296 624270
editor@wendovernews.co.uk
Wendover News November 2020
27
