Virginia Marlene Wittmer

Virginia Marlene Wittmer, born on October 19, 1933, to Jacob and Emma Schlotthauer, passed away on November 14, 2024, in Danville, California. She was raised in Victor, California, alongside her three younger brothers, Vernon, James, and Robert. Virginia's early education took place in a one-room schoolhouse in Victor, followed by Lodi High School, from which she graduated in 1952. That same year, on November 30, she married Robert Lee Wittmer, whom she met at the Evangelical United Brethren Church in Lodi. Together, they raised four children: Karen, Kenneth, Steven, and Thomas.

Virginia dedicated forty years to the Child Nutrition Program in the Fremont Unified School District. She began her career in the kitchen at American High School in Fremont, where her sons Steven and Thomas attended. Her commitment to providing nutritious meals extended to her work with the federally funded Summer Food Service Program, where she ensured children in inner-city neighborhoods received proper nutrition. Virginia was known for her compassion and support for young mothers, offering encouragement and understanding.

A passionate traveler, Virginia explored nearly forty countries, including Israel, Germany, Russia, China, Indonesia, Italy, and many in Africa and South America. Her travels were enriched by visits to local schools and homes, where she learned about diverse cultures and food service programs.

Despite her professional and travel pursuits, Virginia's greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted grandmother to ten grandchildren and a great-grandmother to twenty-one great-grandchildren. Virginia cherished attending their various activities and events, always fostering a home filled with fun, laughter, and love. Her legacy of strong family bonds and enduring friendships will be cherished by all who knew her.

A private service and burial was held in Lodi CA on 11/22/2024.