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.