Alice Irene Kitzman

Born on June 30, 1933, to George and Pearl Wohlford, Alice was the eighth of 13 children. Growing up in a large family instilled in her a deep sense of love, resilience, and commitment that shaped her life. She graduated from Wiggins High School after completing all 12 years of her education, a testament to her determination and dedication.

Alice’s life changed forever when she met Harold Kitzman, the love of her life, at a dance at the Leader Hall. They married on June 2, 1951, embarking on a beautiful journey together that spanned 44 years. Their union was blessed with four children: Carol Jean, Melvin Wayne, Harold Jacob, and Martin Lee.

Alice worked tirelessly alongside Harold in the Wiggins area before they moved to Byers in 1966 to continue farming. A woman of great strength and dedication, she balanced her roles as a devoted wife, mother, and community member with grace.

For 43 years, Alice proudly served as a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. Her love for community extended to her cherished bingo outings, where she created fond memories, often accompanied by her daughter Carol.

In 1971, Alice began her career as a school bus driver for the Byers School District, a role she embraced for 25 years. Known for her exceptional driving skills and her immaculate bus, Alice earned nicknames like "AJ Foyt," "Crankshaft," and "Lead Foot" from her passengers, who admired her humor and care. She took great pride in ensuring the students’ safety on every trip. After Harold’s passing in 1995, Alice retired but carried forward the legacy of her hard work and dedication.

Alice had a talent for hand-embroidery and spent countless hours creating beautiful works of art on dish towels and other items. She also found joy in solving word search puzzles, a reflection of her sharp mind and attention to detail.

Alice’s family was her greatest pride and joy. She is survived by her children: Carol Kitzman of Byers, CO; Melvin (Lannette) Kitzman of Deer Trail, CO; Harold (Laurie) Kitzman of Granbury, TX; and Martin Kitzman of Byers, CO. She also leaves behind five granddaughters, four grandsons, four great-granddaughters, nine great-grandsons, four sisters: Georgia Taylor of Missouri, Goldie Buckendorf of Green River, WY, Margaret Glantz of Phoenix, AZ and Sara Lee Tibbetts of Grand Junction, CO; numerous nieces, nephews, and many family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Alice is preceded in death by her husband Harold, infant daughter Susan, her parents George and Pearl, her brothers Dale, Bill, Roger, Wendel, and Roy, and her sisters Ethel, Sylvia, and Beulah.

Alice’s legacy is one of love, hard work, and unshakable faith in family and community. She will be remembered for her kind heart, her sharp wit, and the countless lives she touched with her warmth and generosity. Rest in peace, Alice. Your love and light will remain in our hearts forever.

To coin a phrase by Melvin, “Ninety one and a half Is One Hell of a RIDE!”

A visitation for Alice will be held Friday, January 17, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Mountain View Fellowship, 1955 Headlight Road, Strasburg, CO 80136. A funeral service will occur Friday, January 17, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, 1955 Headlight Road, Strasburg, CO 80136. A committal service will occur Friday, January 17, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Byers Cemetery, 548 S Owens Circle, Byers, CO 80103.

Memorial Contributions can be made to: American Legion Post 160, 278 W. Front Street, Byers, CO 80130 or American Legion Auxiliary, 278 W. Front Street, Byers, CO 80130.