Lita L. Barthelmes

On Friday, September 6, 2024, Lita L. (Lander) Barthelmes age 85 passed away peacefully in Yukon, OK with her daughter Lori, her attack cat, Mittens, and many of her church family by her side. She was born in Erie, PA on December 16, 1938. Lita loved unconditionally as a mother and grandmother. She never forgot a birthday and made holidays for her family unforgettable. She will be missed beyond measure by all who knew her.

Lita graduated from Academy High School and Erie Business Center in Erie, PA. She had a life-long career in the medical field, having worked at Hamot Medical Center, Saint Vincent's Hospital and Millcreek Community Hospital as a medical insurance coder and medical transcriptionist. She also worked from home for many years transcribing for local Erie physicians.  Lita enjoyed going for convertible rides, boating and spending time with family at Presque Isle; she also loved camping with her family at Camp Sherwin. Lita had a special love of music that she shared with her son Peter and granddaughter, Tori. She was always singing songs whether she was cooking, gardening or riding in the car. Lita was an avid collector of Hallmark Ornaments, and she had a magical touch when it came to her holiday displays. Lita was a life-long member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Erie, PA up until 5 years ago when she moved to Oklahoma and became a member of Resurrection Lutheran Church, Yukon, OK.  Her favorite services of the year were the beach service at Presque Isle and the Christmas Eve candle-light service. After retirement Lita and Terry could be seen walking at Presque Isle State Park with their dog Jake and frequented the Pennbriar Athletic Club in Erie.

Lita was preceded in death by Torrance F. Barthelmes after 58 years of marriage and by her youngest son Peter John Barthelmes. She was also preceded in death by her father William Lander, mother Helen Lander, brother Bill Lander and brother Chuck Lander.

Lita is survived by her children; Scott (Linda) Barthelmes of Pittsburgh, PA, Lori Barthelmes of Yukon, OK, Paula (Steve) Ireland of Clarion, PA; her grandchildren David (Brittany) Anderson, Jesse (McKenna) Anderson, Tori (Alex) Cochrane and great grandchildren: Leyla, Lauralie, Lainey, Elowen and Dominic. Also survived by brother John (Janice) Lander and many nieces and nephews that she loved dearly.

There will be a Celebration of Life Service, Saturday September 28th at 6:00pm, at the Boat Launches near the Lake Overholser Boathouse and Café (3115 E. Overholser Dr) Please bring your lawn chair.  Pets are welcomed but need to be on a leash.