Carmen Yvette Bittner

It is with heavy hearts, coupled with gratitude that our family announces that Carmen Y. Bittner (Cuca to her family) has gone to receive her reward in Heaven. After a long illness she peacefully stepped into eternity on April 9th, 2024. A native of her beloved Santurce, Puerto Rico she was born December 6, 1947 to Aurea and Emeterio Lugo, one of their 12 children; the late Carmen "Nanda"(Emilio), the late Mary (Luis), the late Amado (Blanca), Ines (David), Agustin (Rosario), Cecilio, the late Victor, Margarita (Wilfredo), Miguel, Jose Antonio (Inez) and Emelia (Wilson). She was a long time resident of Chicago IL, where she met and married her beloved husband, the late James J. Bittner Jr., and felt herself fortunate to be the adoring and doting mother to Melissa (Josue) Gomez, and the late James A. Bittner. She most recently lived in Conroe, Texas with her daughter, son in law and dearly cherished grandchildren, Lyla and Jacob and cuddly grand-dog Bella.

To know Carmen was to know a lifelong educator. Yes, she was a 34 year retired Chicago Public School teacher, who took pride in helping her primary students excel in English and Spanish. Give her a group of 5 year-olds and they would be reading, writing, singing in both languages and on occasion doing multiplication within 9 months. Yet, she did not limit her passion for sharing knowledge and wisdom to the four walls of a classroom. She would "teach" anyone who would listen; perhaps it was how to properly apply makeup, dance merengue or give dating advice. Her favorite topic to share was her love for her Lord and Savior Jesus.

She leaves a legacy of steadfast love, care and generosity for her family, friends, students and loved ones. Her sharp tongue, easy laugh, elegant presence and infinite strength will continue to inspire those whose lives were fortunate enough to be touched by her.

"Cuca" we thank God for the 20 plus years He gifted you. You surpassed the statistics and survived above 95%! That, brings peace and comfort to those whom you have preceded. Therefore, we do not say goodbye, we celebrate you and say adieu, until we meet again.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.Montclair-LucaniaFuneral.com for the Bittner family.