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KERRY VERNON BITTNER
Born: Jun 18, 1945
Date of Passing: Mar 13, 2020
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
KERRY VERNON BITTNER
June 18, 1945 - March 13, 2020
Kerry was born in Winnipeg, the son of immigrants, Vernon and Katharine Bittner. He lived almost his entire life here, and always expressed a deep love of this city with its distinct seasons and easy pace of life. At the same time, he was happiest when he could escape the urban landscape and enjoy the natural hinterlands of Manitoba and NW Ontario, and in his later years his favourite place to be was the family cottage on War Eagle Lake near Kenora. Kerry also had an adventurous spirit and travelled widely throughout the world, first as part of his job and then out of a passion for exploring varied sights and experiences in remote and exotic places.
Kerry had a highly successful and lauded career. After graduating from the Business program at the Manitoba Institute of Technology in 1966, he spent several years in a marketing role at Air Canada in Montreal before returning to Winnipeg to take a position with Manitoba Blue Cross. After a period as Vice President of Sales & Marketing, he became President in 1984 and over the next couple of decades set a prosperous direction for the non-profit insurer. He was well-loved by his employees and well-regarded in the business community, serving on the boards of a number of local organizations. Although officially retiring in 2004, Kerry remained busy working in a consultant role into his final years, representing Blue Cross on the important Teamsters Canada account.
A man of faith, Kerry could be found in church every Sunday morning at St. Charles Parish (or at St. Louis in Kenora, Ontario, during the summers), where he was a steady financial supporter and active congregant. He was a charitable man, giving generously of his time and wealth to causes he believed in like the Villa Rosa Residence supporting pregnant women and young mothers in need. But above all, Kerry was at heart a family man whose most special moments were passed with those closest to him, above all his wife of over 51 years, Sandy.
Kerry was predeceased by his parents, Vern and Katharine and his only sibling, his sister Joni. He leaves behind his devoted wife Sandy, sons, Kurt (Aida) and Clayton (Stacey), daughter Krista Schaan (Craig), and grandchildren, Cameron and Megan Bittner and Brayden and Eric Schaan, along with extensive friends and relations.
We would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at CancerCare Manitoba, Palliative Manitoba and Riverview Health Centre for their assistance in caring for our father in his final months and days.
In light of current limitations imposed by the Coronavirus pandemic, the funeral service will be restricted to immediate family. It is our intention to plan a public celebration of Kerry's life at a later date when more favourable conditions present.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honour Kerry's legacy are asked to donate to CancerCare Manitoba or the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba.
Condolences may be sent to www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com
Publish Date: Mar 21, 2020
KERRY VERNON BITTNER
A longer obituary notice to follow.
Condolences may be sent to www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com
Publish Date: Mar 14, 2020 Make a donation to

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 14, 2020, Mar 21, 2020
Condolences & Memories (18 entries)
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I remember Mr. Bittner's second cousin Ron very well. His daughters' friends used to be enrolled in the aquatics club I was a member of and I remember all the good times we had at competitions. Cory & Collin were assigned to the specialized education program at the place that I was educated at, and later enrolled in the sports club I participated in many years ago. My sympathy, Philip - Posted by: Philip (Friend of Ashlee and Brittany) on: Dec 27, 2021
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Dear Sandy and Family: Please accept our deepest sympathy at Kerry's passing. Ginny and I were shocked when we saw Kerry's notice in the paper. We last saw both of you at the dinner in the park in October and well he was struggling a bit, he told me he was doing okay. I enjoyed working with him at Blue Cross and seeing each other at the lake occasionally. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Bruce and Ginny - Posted by: Bruce Thompson/Ginny Thompson (Co-worker/Friend) on: Apr 02, 2020
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Dear Sandy and family...... We were so very sorry to hear of Kerry's passing. We remember our times spent with you both during our connection with you and the Blue Cross family. We are so happy that we were able to spend time with you at lunch during our trip to Maui a couple of years ago....and wonderful that we could pick up where we left off. We have, and will always have, fond memories of a great guy! Sincerely, Terry and Donna - Posted by: Terry and Donna Brash (Friends) on: Mar 29, 2020
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Sandy, please accept our deepest condolences on Kerry's passing. We both greatly enjoyed working with you both over the years. Kerry was a great man and always fun to be around. - Posted by: Terry & Barry Ritchie (work relationship) on: Mar 28, 2020
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Dear Sandy-although we said our farewells to Kerry at the end of last summer. It is still a shock to hear of his passing. As you know, we had a marvelous 5 years working together at Manitoba Blue Cross in the early 1980's. It was a Dream Team management group and, of course, Kerry continued that success after I left. We always looked forward to having our summer dinners together with you & Kerry and sharing stories of both the past and the present. We would appreciate it if someone could let us know when the memorial service would be, in case we can attend. Since I am now the last remaining member of that Dream Team, it just reinforces the need to be thankful for every day we have on this Earth and to make the most of it-I know that Kerry lived that way and we hope that somehow you can continue that in the future. All the best to you & the family. John & Karen Friesen - Posted by: John & Karen Friesen (Co-worker and friend) on: Mar 27, 2020
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Dear Sandy, We were very saddened to hear of Kerry’s passing and are so sorry for you and your family’s heartbreaking loss. War Eagle Lake has lost a fine neighbour. We know how proud he was of the beautiful cabin you built together - where he enjoyed many wonderful years and happy times with his Sandy and family. We used to jealously joke that we wished Kerry was “our” Dad, as there was never any shortage of boats and water toys for all his children and grandchildren to enjoy! We will miss seeing Kerry head out with for the usual late afternoon pontoon ride to the end of the lake and back! We are certain though, that he will be watching over you all and hoping you continue to enjoy his piece of "heaven on earth”. Rest In Peace Mr B. Deepest condolences from the McElrea family. - Posted by: The McElrea Family (Lake neighbours) on: Mar 26, 2020
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My sincere condolences to the entire Bittner family. I recall when I started my business (in 2001 or 2002) I reached out to Mr. Bittner about who at Blue Cross MB (since I knew he worked here) would he suggest I speak to about selling travel insurance, the product Blue Cross has and other suggestions and ideas related to this. He hosted the meeting himself (which I was surprised as he was the President of Blue Cross MB at the time!) and gave me lots of great info for me to proceed with and some funny comments I cant share here but have never forgot. The meeting was in his office and i concluded with thanking him (profusely I hope) and I remember saying something like. I hope you do not get in trouble for hosting this meeting with me because I am a friend of (his son) Clay? He surprised me by saying something like "Who am i going to get in trouble from - it would have to come from me and I am the boss - besides I am also the Red River College Alumni President and now you are one of us and always remember to try and take time for our fellow alumni (which he was involved with at the time I learned later). I always remembered that and have tried to where i can with fellow alumni. I also remember dropping by after the purchase of the property at War Eagle on route to my parents cottage (down the highway) to see if Clay and Stacey had arrived on A Friday evening yet only to find out they had not. I said I wont bother them and get going but he would not have any of it and was so excited to show me their new cottage. I am glad he had many happy times in his retirement here as i know how much he enjoyed it. - Posted by: DARYL ADAIR (Friend of the Family) on: Mar 23, 2020
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Aunty Sandy, Kurt, Clay, Krista, Aida, Stacey and Craig, Our sincerest condolences about Uncle Kerry. We are so glad that you were able to have such great family get togethers in recent weeks and months. I am sure you will treasure these fond memories forever. If you need anything, don't hesitate to reach out. All our love and best wishes, Dan, Cyndy, Julianna and Ethan - Posted by: Daniel Stephanson and Cynthia Cantlie (Nephew) on: Mar 22, 2020
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It is with a saddened heart to learn of the passing of Kerry. He was such a fine and refined gentleman. By coincidence I have a daughter Kerry and although our sur names are spelled differently, they are pronounced the same. Without hesitation I can say it has always been an honor to have people think we were relatives, if not brothers. Whenever he came in for an appointment I always allowed plenty of time for us to catch up and others thought we were relatives as I always called him Cousin Kerry when he was in. Quite by coincidence my wife was asked one day if she was related to Kerry Bittner. When she said "yes, I am Kerry Buettner's mother." a confused look came over them. Within a few minutes and following some laughter they determined it was two different people they were talking about. My sincere condolences to Sandy and their children and spouses. In keeping with your wishes a donation will be sent in his memory to Cancer Care. Please inform me when his memorial service has been scheduled. In sympathy and caring, Dr. Mark Buettner - Posted by: Dr. Mark Buettner (friend and patient ) on: Mar 21, 2020
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Dear Sandy, Tony and I were so very sorry to read of Kerry’s passing. We have fond memories of our time in YPO together. He was a true gentleman and always willing to help others. Please accept our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Tony and Marjorie Guertin - Posted by: Marjorie Guertin (Friend) on: Mar 21, 2020
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Dear Sandy and family, I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you all and to everyone who loved Kerry. This is such a huge loss. Love, Judy Hildahl - Posted by: Judy Hildahl (Friend) on: Mar 21, 2020
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We have known Kerry and Sandy since our early teens. During the early days there were a few adventures. As we grew older, got married, had children our lives become more focused. Kerry was always someone to admire. Great family man, astute businessman but always had a great personality and ready laugh. We will cherish days we had with the Bittner family at Crow Lake before they settled at War Eagle. Our condolences to Sandy and her children. Kerry will always be in our hearts. - Posted by: Russ & Marlene Muth (Friends) on: Mar 21, 2020
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Dear Sandy, May God grant you His peace as you mourn the loss of Sandy yet celebrate a life well lived. Roma Niessen - Posted by: Roma Niessen (Past friend) on: Mar 21, 2020
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Dear Sandy and family. So sorry for your loss. May the memories of a thoughtful & loving husband and Dad sustain you through your grief. Andy very much enjoyed his friendship with Kerry professionally and personally. Take good care of each other, Marjorie - Posted by: Marjorie Dawson (Family friend) on: Mar 21, 2020
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Sandy and family, We were saddened to Ted of Kerry’s passing. Kerry was an outstanding Manitoban. I served with him on the board of Blue Cross Life. He was smart, funny and dedicated to helping others. Evelyn and I enjoyed sharing Christmas letters each year and catching up on each other’s family. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. David and Evelyn Friesen - Posted by: David and Evelyn Friesen (Friends) on: Mar 18, 2020
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Dear Sandy and family, just wanted to express our deepest condolences from our family to yours on this very sad loss. We have many memories over the years of occasions and travels and wonderful times spent with Kerry and you all. My dad loved Kerry and your family very much and always spoke of him highly. I have many fond memories of him as a joyful, kind and endearing man personally and professionally. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Love the O'Brien family - Posted by: Anastasia O'Brien (friend) on: Mar 17, 2020
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Dear Sandy and family, Chris and I are deeply sorry to hear of your loved one. Kerry was a very kind man and a classy one at that. We will always remember him. We send our deepest sympathy and our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. Chris and Colleen - Posted by: Colleen and Chris Souce (Friend) on: Mar 17, 2020
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Dear Sandy and family, my deepest condolences to you and your family. Im heart broken for all of you. I had the pleasure to work with Kerry for many many years. He was the most caring , helpfull , friendly,positive president one could ever work with. I will never forget Kerry as there is a place in my heart for him. I was so happy to see him at Colosseo's a few weeks ago . I gave him a big hug and we took a photo together. Kerry also told me he loved me and I also told him . Keep memories close to all you hearts. Love Toni Rondinone - Posted by: Toni Rondinone (friend and co-worker) on: Mar 16, 2020

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