Mrs. Roberta Ann "Bobbie" Bitters

Roberta Anne (McCorkle)Bitters passed away, surrounded by her family, on September 19th, 2018. She leaves behind her loving husband of 42 years, John Robert Bitters, her sister Peggy Ruske, brother David McCorkle, her two devoted daughters Jennifer Anne Rust and Katherine Erin Bitters-Schwarz, son-in-laws Wayne Rust and Michael Schwarz, and four young grandchildren, who she adored to no end; Giles, Victoria, Ava and Violette.
Bobbie was born March 2nd, 1946, in Middletown, CT., to Helen and Ronald McCorkle. She graduated from Central Connecticut State University with a master's degree in education, beginning a career as an educator which would span nearly fifty years. Her life work would enrich the futures of thousands of children through her leadership, resourcefulness, and passion for inspiring young minds. Her incredible career took her from a kindergarten classroom in Milwakee, Wisconsin, to the elementary school in Barrow, Alaska, where she established a preschool program, and directed the English as a second language and Migrant Education programs. From there, she went on to share her energy with the students at Ryan Junior High and later worked in administration in the Fairbanks, Alaska school district. After moving from Alaska to Lacy, Washington, she served as an elementary school principal, where she was able to inspire teachers and nurture students for another thirteen years. Throughout her life, she devoted her seemingly unlimited energy and skills to enriching and improving the lives of everyone who was fortunate enough to know her.
In her spare time, Bobbie tended her busy bee hives, cultivated a prolific garden, made every summer and holiday magical for her grandchildren, quilted blankets for charity, knitted bonnets and sweaters for every baby she knew, hunted for treasure at garage sales, had tea with friends and went for daily walks&all with her trademark, boundless energy and enthusiasm.
Her family is comforted by the knowledge that, during her rich and adventurous life, she accomplished amazing things, shared her gifts freely, loved her family fiercely, and was treasured in return.
A memorial will be held at Mountain View Elementary Gymnasium, on October 6th, 2018 at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bobbie's name to North Thurston School District.