Valeria A. Bitney

Valeria Arlaine (Gravunder) Bitney, age 92, was called to her eternal rest on Sunday, February 2, 2014 at the Maplewood Nursing Home where she and Gordon had made their home for the past two years. She was born on February 12, 1921 in the town of Bloomer to John and Elsie (Albrecht) Gravunder. Valeria was baptized on March 13, 1931 and was confirmed by Rev. A. R. Boer at St. John’s Lutheran Church. She was united in marriage to Gordon Bitney on June 7, 1941. Into this union was born three children: John, Charlene and Cheryl. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great and great-great grandmother. She was a gracious hostess and enjoyed baking and cooking for her family and friends. Throughout the years, Valeria worked as a homemaker, waitress, store clerk and school bus driver. She was a member of Christ Lutheran Church and enjoyed fishing, baking, cooking and gardening.

Valeria is survived by one son: John (Cynthia) Bitney of Eau Claire; two daughters: Charlene Goller of Savannah MO and Cheryl (Jack) Nimtz of Rochester MN; 10 grandchildren and many great and great-great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents: John and Elsie; husband: Gordon; son-in-law: Jim Goller; brothers: Gilbert (Mae) Gravunder and Wilfred (Jeanette) Gravunder; infant sister: Lorraine.
Funeral services will be held at the Olson Funeral Home in Bloomer on Thursday, February 6, 2014 at 11:00 AM with Pastor Bruce Rimmereid officiating. There will be a visitation one hour prior to the service on Thursday. Interment will take place in Pleasant Valley Cemetery.