HUDSON FALLS – Patricia Anne Bittinger, 84, a longtime Hudson Falls resident who most recently resided in Boalsburg, PA, died Wednesday, August 21, 2013 at the Hearthside Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in State College, PA.
Born on October 2, 1928, in Mechanicville, she was the daughter of the late Henry and Anne (DeCamilla) Catone.
Mrs. Bittinger was a 1945 graduate of Mechanicville High School. She graduated with a bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Ithaca College in 1949. She later received her Master’s Degree in Music Education from SUNY Albany.
Her husband, James W. Bittinger, Jr. died on April 21, 2001.
She taught music education and was the choir accompanist for the Hudson Falls School District until her retirement in 1985.
In addition to her teaching, she participated for many years at the New York State School Music Association’s annual conference. Pat accompanied hundreds of young musicians for graded solo competitions and regional music festivals. She was the principal pianist for Glens Falls Operetta Club, playing some 39 shows as well as having accompanied soloists for the Lake George Opera of Lake George, NY. In 1992, Pat was honored by the Glens Falls operetta Club for her limitless contributions to the success of their musical productions. She continued playing for the community well into her 70’s.
She was a communicant of St. Mary’s/St. Paul’s Church in Hudson Falls.
Pat her survived by one daughter, Anne K. Borys and her husband, Alexander of Boalsburg, PA, with whom she resided with for the past 10 years.
Family and friends are welcome to attend a graveside Rite of Committal on Wednesday, August 28, 2013 at 1 p.m. at St. Mary’s Cemetery on Burgoyne Ave. in the town of Fort Edward with the Rev. Thomas Babiuch, pastor of St. Mary’s/St. Paul’s Church in Hudson Falls officiating.
Memorial donations in Pat’s memory may be made to the State College Area Food bank, 276 W. Hamilton Ave., State College, PA, 16801
Local arrangements are under the direction of the Carleton Funeral home, Inc., 68 Main St., Hudson Falls.
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. Pat was a dear and talented person. As an accompanist she was amazing. I remember the Liedtke’s ,who had just moved up here from working theater in NYC, saying she was a brilliant accompanist. Pat was always able to get someone back on track at an audition by pounding out the melody. She never missed. Loved her salty sense of humor and caring ways. Have fond memories of the parties at Pat and Jim’s to listen to the tapes of the shows. Many of us will never forget her and always think fondly of her. Doris Seipel
Anyone who was lucky enough to work with Mrs. B, understands this when I say that she taught me to go for my dreams and sing, sing, sing. Her and Ms. Irwin made an amazing duo towards the contribution of music at Hudson Falls. May she rest in peace. Many prayers to family and friends!
I will never forget the Mozart Requiem that our concert choir sang with the beautiful piano accompaniment fromMrs. B. It was breath taking. Many prayers go out to the family. Sincerely, Rosemary Pacific
Thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time. Mrs.B was a large part of my musical education in school as well as making it fun to learn as well. She and Prof B. made me dig down and learn to keep practicing until I got it down. For that I am forever grateful.
Anne & Family, Sorry to hear about your mom. She was a great talent! I’ll always remember choir, with Joyce Irwin & your mom at piano.
For so many of us as Jr High and High School students in HF, (including all 5 Webster’s) Mrs. B was the constant force in our musical education. From 7th – 12th grade, choir, musicals, sectionals, area all state etc etc. we will always remember her unwavering commitment to our ensembles but mostly to us as individual students. Her big personality and ascerbic wit all mixed with a tenderhearted love for us all… and that big brown Cadillac always front and center in the D wing circle!!! Fond memories and many thanks to you, Mr and Mrs Borys, for sharing your mom with us!
Anne and Alex…….my deepest sympathies……….Rose