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R. Bitton Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for R. Bitton
Maureen Crane Payton
May 8, 2007
Dearest JoAn My heart is broken for your loss. We have lost a wonderfull man and he will never be forgotten. I love you very much and my heart and prayers go out to you. may Heavenly Father give you strength and peace
Gloria Borg
May 6, 2007
dear cousin Joan,
Words desert me at times like this. Please accept our deepest condolences in this time of pain.
"There are people who speak to us and we do not listen; there are people who hurt us and they don't leave a scar; but there are people who simply appear in our life and they mark us forever"" (Cecilia Meireles). Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Gloria, Dad and family.
David Walters
May 4, 2007
Dear Cousin JoAn,
I am so sorry to hear of his passing, as we know he's in a much better place now.
Thank you as always for your help with our genealogy research on the Tapps & Kindles.
Judyth (Barton) Reitze
April 30, 2007
To the family of Davis Bitton:
Greetings and condolences from Judy (Barton) Reitze. When I was a new member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Davis Bitton was a professor of history at The University of Texas - and my Institute instructor. I have fond memories of that time in my life. I am sorry to read of Brother Bitton's passing and know that he will be missed.
Frank Cammans
April 29, 2007
Dear Family,
While I only had a small contact in Davis' life, it has remained with me these many years. We traveled together to the French Mission in 1950. After that we never were companions, but saw each other occasionally during the mission. I have tried to follow his life through friends and relatives. My niece worked with him in the Church History department. I only wish that I had had more direct contact. Most remembered was his talent for playing the piano. He was good, really good. Peace be with you all.
Jose Alves
April 23, 2007
We're very sorry and we share our prayers with all your family.We'll never forget the "International Dinners". It was our privilege to meet Mr. Bitton and your loved wife, Joan.
From your brazilian friends,
Jose Alves and family
Tony Feraud
April 22, 2007
Dear Cousin JoAn,
You have been blessed to have such a gentleman, a true scholar and a musician as your earthly companion. We have not had the pleasure of meeting Davis, but I will treasure the CD you had sent me a fair while ago with Davis on the piano. He's in good company up there. Love from cousin Tony and wife Mary.
Ron Esplin
April 21, 2007
The stories and comments shared at the funeral about Davis's scholarship and his personality and character brought back many personal memories. Many historians probe the sources and find new information and insights. Few can then convey them with the wit and grace of Davis. I was also inspired by the ways in which he has connected with and reached out to his extended family. That, too, is worthy of emulation. Friends, family, scholars – many will miss him and treasure lessons learned and experiences shared with "a gentleman and a scholar."
Todd & Margy Andersen
April 21, 2007
JoAn, What a blessing to have enjoyed such a rich association with Davis which will continue on forever! You have been good friends of ours and good friends to the international members who often had but few friends.
Margy and I are serving a mission together in Sao Paulo Brazil--she is a mental health counselor for full time missionaries--many of whom are Brazilian. Our best wishes to you both. We did enjoy and could hear Davis speak in his own obituary. From your old friends.
Martin De Carlo
April 21, 2007
Dear Joan, You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers in this difficult moment in your lives. May the Good Lord grant you the peace and comfort you need . We are very grateful for all that your beloved husband and yourself did for our branch here in Malta.
God bless you,
the DeCarlos
Terry Bingham
April 20, 2007
Dear JoAn
I'm sorry to hear of your loss at least we know he has gone to a better place. I want to thank you for all your help with my genealogy.
Eugene Morris
April 20, 2007
JoAn:
So sorry about Davis's passing, but thank goodness you know the "Plan". We'll miss him. Gene said it did his heart good to get to know Davis and to be around you two while you were here in Hawaii.You are a great couple. We look forward to seeing you again this summer. Much love and Aloha, Gene and Marie Morris
David and Stacey Larsen
April 20, 2007
Joan,
It has been a pleasure knowing both you and Davis. You were a light to me when we lived in Malta and have kept me in touch with all of the wonderful saints there. We wish you well in your future endeavors and know the the love of our Heavenly Father will be with you for the great example that you have been to all those around you.
Monica Cachia (Borg)
April 20, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Michael Williams
April 19, 2007
JoAn & Family,
What a pleasure it was to have crossed paths with Davis. I first encountered Davis & JoAn in the front of a Book of Mormon that was in the missionary flat in Sliema, Malta back in the Spring of 1993. I decided to write them a letter and let them know that we had some copies of the Book of Mormon with their testimony in them and to let them know of the progress of the church in Malta. That letter began a friendship with both Davis and JoAn that has been most special. There have been many occassions when I sat in their living room and was able to hear the latest news on Malta and to hear Davis play some beautiful hymns for us.
What a great man with many wonderful accomplishments here in this world. He will be missed but warmly welcomed on the other side.
God bless you.
Keith & Vella Perkins
April 19, 2007
What a shock to pick up the Deseret News and see Davis Bitton’s picture and obituary. When we were with him in Hawaii this past fall and winter he looked great. We reminisced together of the past years we have worked and enjoyed being together.
It began when I was as a graduate student at Brigham Young University. I was hired to assist him in his project to catalog and write a brief summary of all the LDS diaries and journals housed at BYU. I learned many things from him as we worked on that project.
Later I attended many meetings with him where scholarly discussions on LDS Church history were held. I found him to be a fine scholar, a gentleman, and a faithful member of the Church.
As we taught together this past year at BYU-Hawii it was wonderful to renew our friendship and relive some wonderful and fond memories together. We laughed together as I joked with him about how in those early day he always called me Wayne, I don’t think knowing that really was my middle name.
We send our love and sympathy to JoAn and the rest of his family. Davis was truly a gentleman and a scholar. We will miss him.
Howard Bahr
April 19, 2007
Dear JoAn,
A few months ago, after an interlude of over 40 years, I again talked with Davis, asking permission to duplicate his out-of-print "Images of the Prophet Joseph Smith" for one of my sociology classes. We had become acquainted as members of the Austin Ward, when I was a graduate student and he a professor at the University of Texas. Reading his book was one of the high points of my course this year, and students remarked on how his presentation of the various images of the Prophet Joseph increased their faith. His faith continues to build the faith of others.
Howard M. Bahr
Richard L. Anderson
April 18, 2007
Dear JoAn,
Monday I turned on BYU Television during a late lunch, and was thrilled to hear Davis speaking to students at Hawaii, on the importance of maintaining faith and avoiding negative criticism, on the importance of recording history, with inspiring examples. It was so fitting on the day of the viewing, that Davis could speak at mid-day to a broad audience, about the things that mattered most to him, and to all of us.
Tammy & John Naylor
April 17, 2007
We are good friends of Torch and Darlene Morris and their family. We had the opportunity to meet and spend time with the Bittons and enjoyed them very much. They had a wonderful home and spirit there. You could tell that they love their children and grandchildren very much. We love the Morris family and want them to know how saddened we are at their loss. We love you guys.
Craig & Suzanne Foster
April 17, 2007
Dear JoAn:
Suzanne and I want to express our condolences at the loss of a truly great man. We are grateful we had the chance to know him and wish you the best in this difficult time.
Marcia k. Cheney-Lyon
April 17, 2007
Dearest Bittons
What a choice opportunity to serve along side Brother Bitton the past 6 months or so. At times, I was so intimidated of his knowledge and understanding. However, I looked to him as a great teacher and example and learned much from him. One day I'll be able to teach the Old Testament from note cards! We often spoke of tidbits of treasure found in the scriptures-and he offered one to me upon my recent marriage. And now to Brother Bitton a treasure or more a statement of the man I knew.
Proverbs 3:13
For your example and friendship and teaching moments I thank you.
Max Evans
April 17, 2007
Dear JoAn,
I was saddened to learn of the loss of your dear husband. The world is poorer for his passing, but he left us with typical grace and style.
Our paths continued to cross. Davis was my teacher at the University of Utah, probably during his first or second year at the U. Later, I worked at the Church Archives when he became Assistant Church Historian. He taught my son and followed Joe's career; we often ran into you and Davis at the Utah Symphony. And you and Davis were in my in-laws' ward until the end of their lives. I think Davis was their home teacher.
Surely he will be missed by my family and by all others whose lives have been touched by this wonderful man.
Vittorio Favaretto
April 17, 2007
Having just heard Brother Bitton has passed away, my first thought has been of the very pleasant hours I spent in his company in Malta with him at the piano. Lynn and I join the multitude of his friends and acquaintances in sending our deeply felt condolences to Sister Bitton
Mel Bashore
April 17, 2007
JoAn,
I find a soft, tender tear bubbling to the surface. Davis was so good, kind, and true. He did such a beautiful job of putting the puzzle pieces of life together--not jamming them or forcing them, but just doing it just right. Love you.
Helen Erickson
April 16, 2007
To the wonderful family of Davis,
It was my pleasure to meet each of you through my dear friend Marilyn and your precious mother Lola. Her memory still lives in my heart with the many stories she shared with me of her wonderful family in her last days at the hospital. I have enjoyed the musical talents of both Marilyn and Davis. It is a day of rejoicing as a wonderful reunion of family meets together on the other side but a day of mourning and sadness at the passing and loss of Davis for those left behind. My prayers are with each of you.
With love,
Helen Erickson
Dean Tingey
April 16, 2007
To the Bitton Family:
I only took one class - Family History - from Dr. Bitton, but he was my most favorite professor & it was my most favorite class. I send my thoughts to you, his surviving family and friends. I express my appreciation for being privileged enough to meet & learn from such an intelligent yet humble man.
Jessie Embry
April 16, 2007
JoAn--
How we loved Davis! He was always such a supportive person. I will miss his hello and his support. I wish it was not the end of the semester. Attending the funeral is simply impossible. But I will always cherish my friendship with you and Davis. I am so glad that you added so much to his life.
Thomas Young
April 16, 2007
Dearest JoAn and Family,
We were shocked and saddened at the sudden passing of our dear friend Davis. We cherish the memories of our Cannon Hinkley work together and just being there with you and Davis at those precious meetings has been our honor and our treat.
Davis's carefully crafted verbal self-protrait was both interesting and consoling. We shall miss his monthly historic vignettes. I would hope each and all of those gems have been preserved, along with his review of life.
We look forward to meeting you at the viewing Monday evening.
Meanwhile, please know of our profound love and respect for you both.
Dwan and Tom Young
steve mayfield
April 16, 2007
Davis Bitton: a true scholar, a gentleman and friend...and a whiz on the piano!! he will be missed . my condolances to his his lovely wife and famly....God Bless you Davis
Alison Moore Smith
April 16, 2007
The Bittons have been part of my life since almost before I was born. As part of the (in?)famous Study Group that began in Santa Barbara (I think), and migrated east to Utah, they were often guests of my parents (Hal & D'On) and vice versa.
Davis was always kind and encouraging whenever we crossed paths. And he always remembered me, which was amazing (and really nice).
Much love to you, JoAn, and all your family.
Anna Kaanga
April 16, 2007
Aloha JoAn and family --
Our love and prayers are with you at this difficult yet sweet time. It's so like him to write his own obituary. His sense of humor and wit comes smiling through.
How lucky you are to have known and lived with such a wonderful man. We love you both very much. Thank you for blessing us here at BYU Hawaii with his and your presence even though it was for such a short while.
May the Lord continue to bless and strengthen you and your family . . .
Me kealoha pumehana --
Stanley Ball Jr. (TSA)
April 16, 2007
Although I did not know Mr. Bitton after reading his story, it's a shame to see such a wonderful man leave the world as we know it. Someone who has given so much of his time, himself, and contributed so much. I hope that this finds you and your family in good spirits and health. If I can help at all, please let me know.
Martha Bradley
April 16, 2007
Davis was a great friend and mentor to me, weathering storms as well as welcoming good times. I remember how happy he became when he met Joann and started a new life with her. Reinvigorted is an understatement, her grace blessed his life. A rare individual, to be missed.
Pat Barnes
April 16, 2007
Davis Bitton was one of my History Professors years ago at the University of Utah. At the time I was majoring in..., well, I can't remember right now, but I ended up graduating in History. Later on, the Bitton's moved into the neighborhood where I grew up and I would see Davis at church when I visited the folks. I have truly enjoyed knowing him over the years, reading his books, and hearing of him from my family. He was a wonderful teacher, a great writer, and an inspiring person! We'll all miss him.
Afton & Nick Stincelli
April 16, 2007
We have been blessed to know Brother Bitton. He was kind to us and how I wish I could hear him play the piano again. Our prayers are with his family. Your friends, Nick & Afton Stincelli
Mark Haught
April 16, 2007
A friend and c-worker of Torch; you and your family are in our prayers. What a great life testomony. God bless you all.
Susan Staker
April 15, 2007
Davis was such a gentleman--funny, understated. I admired his work--he was an elegant writer and a clear thinker. A very good man.
Mike Parker
April 15, 2007
I have read Br. Bitton's works over the years, and only had the honor of finally meeting him in person two years ago. He was gracious and warm, a true gentleman and saint. His family, the historical community, and the kingdom of God have lost a great man.
Carla Dobson
April 15, 2007
Dear JoAnn,
Our prayers are with you at this time. What a great privilege for being able to have met Davis and his profound testimony of our Heavenly Father and the immense love he had for you!
What a great example and sweet are the memories of all the times you provided for us at your lovely home. You are truly an angel, and I know the Lord is at you side, giving you the strength that can only come from Him. I can only imagine what "international night" he will be preparing when we all finally meet again. All our love,
Carla
Paula, John J, Daniella e Michael
Patricia Webb
April 15, 2007
Dear JoAn,
I will always appreciate the wonderful job Davis did in writing profiles of the Presidents of the Church for our ward newsletter ("The Latest Word From Thirty-third") when I was editor during the mid-80s. One President was featured each month and he was able to write such interesting things that were not generally known about each one. They were all very well written and each one a masterpiece. It was one of my favorite parts of our paper and I so appreciated his willingness to share his vast knowledge of the prophets with us and looked forward to each month to see what he would come up with for the next one.
We loved having both of you in our ward and were sad to see you leave when you moved. You were both so kind and friendly and such an asset to the ward and stake.
Please know that you will be in our thoughts and prayers, JoAn. May the Savior's comforting influence sustain you and bring you peace during this difficult time.
Love,
Patricia Webb
Angel & Sai Naivalu
April 15, 2007
Aloha Grandma and family,
We just wanted to send a message to let you know how you all have been on our minds lately and how much we are missing our Grandpa Bitton.
We have such fond memories of you two being here in Hawaii last year and being a part of our family and activities.
Some of the things that I remember about Grandpa are, first, his great face! He had the best grandpa face in the world! His smile was contagious and it lit up his eyes with a twinkle just like Santa Claus's. Next, his laugh, so genuine. Third, his interest in others and his lack of self-centeredness. He made all of us, even the little kids, feel important in his presence and worth his time.
One lesson that I learned from him, or because of him, is this: Before meeting Grandpa Bitton, I used to think I hated history. After being around him, visiting with him and hearing him tell marvelous accounts of fascinating times and people, I realized, "I don't hate history; I hate the way it was taught!!!"
Grandpa Bitton enlightened me in this principle of the value of great teaching in education. He modeled the need for students to have mentors who inspire, mentors who so passionately address their field of study that all around them become intrigued and infected with a similar love for the subject.
Thank you, Grandma and Grandpa Bitton, for touching our lives.
We love you so much!
We await the opportunity to see Grandpa again.
Until then, Aloha Oe, Grandpa.
Mary Bradford
April 15, 2007
I have cherished my friendship with Davis for many years. I admired his scholarship and enjoyed his sense of humor He encouraged me in my poor efforts at scholarship and my attempts to write. He gave me much needed advice on my biography of Lowell Bennion. We used to meet and talk at MHA meetings, urging each other on. I know, Joann, how much you mean to him.
Francis Jacobberger
April 15, 2007
We have enjoyed our friendship with you these past years. It's always lovely to visit in your home and have appreciated the many kindnesses. Davis was an amazing spirit and a gifted pianist. We will always cherish our memory of him. May the Lord comfort you and yours during this time.
Love,
Patricia & Frank Jacobberger
Paul & Dana Mathews
April 14, 2007
Dear Sister Bitton and family, Our sincere thanks to you and "Grandpa Bitton" for sharing your hearts and lives with our kids and grands in Laie.(The Naivalus) Since we can't be part of their lives, we are eternally grateful for all you have done for them. May your "affectionate and interesting" memories as a family be recalled in the days and weeks ahead as you continue to live your lives worthy of this precious man who is now "cherfully taking in his new state of affairs".
Carol Clark
April 14, 2007
Davis Bitton is a grand soul. He served on my doctoral committee and was a supportive, kind mentor. He will be sorely missed.
Ann Buhr
April 14, 2007
We were saddened to hear of the passing of Davis. He lived such a great life. As we read the finest obituary ever we felt inspired to live even better lives because of your true and sweet example to us. We pray, JoAn, that you will feel the Lord's love and joy even though we know that your grief will be acute. We are privileged to have known both of you and to have witnessed your great model of lives well-lived.
Love, Bob and Ann Buhr
Wally Saucedo III
April 14, 2007
What a wonderful blessing members of the Bitton Family have been in my life. Thank you Davis for your love. Till we meet again.
Robert Smith
April 14, 2007
A great and good man. A fine historian. A comfort to the honest, and a thunderbolt to the liar. There was no one else quite like him, and he will be missed.
Raymond Cunningham
April 14, 2007
R. Davis Bitton was a mentor to me in graduate school at the University of Utah. For those of us who studied under him, he made sure we earned our degrees through very hard work. I have never forgotten how he worked to show us the rewards of historical research. Your vision of the future of historical research enabled me to move my career in directions I would never have gone without your guidance. I am endebted to professor Bitton and I will never forget him.
Richard L. Anderson
April 14, 2007
Dear JoAn,
My love and sorrow at losing Davis for a while. He is a valued friend and trusted voice for the truth of the Restored Church. With you, I will miss his wisdom and friendship. With you, I look forward to a certain reunion and contuing to learn with him in the eternities.
Gordon Irving
April 14, 2007
JoAn, I have known Davis for pretty much my entire adult life, and I appreciate the "leg-up" he gave me in my career and his support and friendship in the years since. My sympathies go to you and I wish you all the best.
Sikel & Aisea Naivalu
April 14, 2007
Aloha Grandpa! We miss you. We shall reunite again someday with more Polynesian dancing and drumming.
You are in our prayers Grandma. We love you!
Sikeli & Aisea Naivalu
Ruth and Bill Ohlsen
April 14, 2007
JoAn,
We are sorry you have lost this great
man. We morn for you.
wIlliam Knecht
April 14, 2007
I hope to see you in the great beyond. There are a lot of your family and mine waiting.
Jerry Glenn
April 14, 2007
Goodby my friend for now. Thanks for all the great conversations we had in Hawaii last year. It was a great eight months to have had your office next to mine. Thanks for all the wonderful music you shared with us. Thanks for all the great times we had with our wives. Thanks JoAnn for your love and understanding for we both married mates with narcolepsy. What great talks we had while they dosed. We are sorry we never got to see both you and Davis in the past few months we have been in Salt Lake. I will never forget the date of Davis's passing for it was on my father's 100th birthday. Hope they meet on the other side. They would really like each other. Good by my friend, you will be missed. Love, The Glenns
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