Barbara Joan Wittern

Barbara Joan (Erickson) Wittern was born May 5, 1937 in Independence, Iowa to Dwight and Pauline Erickson. She passed away January 20, 2022 after spending 3 weeks in the hospital battling an illness.
Barbara primarily grew up in Iowa, but spent 3 years in Germany after WWII. During her childhood while living in Germany, she traveled to many surrounding countries over breaks, which led to her love of travel. After from graduating from High School in Indiana, Iowa, she attended Iowa State teacher College (now the university of Northern Iowa), receiving her bachelor's degree in education.
A mutual friend introduced Barb to Vinton "Rocky" Wittern, and married in June 12, 1960. They had two children, Susan (1964) and Todd (1967). After living in Iowa and Wisconsin, they settled in Brighton, Colorado in1973 where they built a house and raised their family. She later said that it would take a crowbar to get her to move again, and there was never a big enough crowbar for that to happen.
Barb was a fulltime kindergarten teacher in Iowa before raising her family. When her children were old enough, she returned to substitute teaching for about 40 more years. She was much appreciated by the teachers as she went "above and beyond" what was expected. Her favorite grade level was always kindergarten.
Barb was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church where she sang in the choir. Served on various committees, and was a member of the "woman In Need" (WIN) group. She also served on the committee of the church that sponsored the Boy scout Troops. She also enjoyed working in the box office for performances of the Northland Chorale while Rocky sang, and even continued to do so even after his passing.
Throughout her life, Barb enjoyed traveling to many states to see friends, take pictures, visit national parks, presidential libraries and other historical sights. She also enjoyed frequent camping trips to the mountains and listening to elk bugle in the fall.
Barb is preceded in death by her husband, Rocky and by both parents. She is survived by her sister, Sally Davis. Daughter, Susan and her son, Todd. Along by numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorials can be sent to the Brighton united Methodist Church at 625 S. 8th Avenue, Brighton, CO, 80601, or to the Dumb Friends League at 2080 S. Quebec St., Denver, CO 80207.