Betty Della (Lehman) Vitalie, 90, of Indiana, passed away Thursday, January 20, 2022 in Florida. She was the wife of William A. Vitalie Sr, whom she married May 23, 1953.
Born February 2, 1931 in St. Michael, Cambria County, she was a daughter of the late Samuel and Helen (Enos) Lehman. She was the eldest of eight children; Ray, (deceased), Arlene, (deceased), Shirley, Audrey, Dennis, Gary, and Ron.
Betty graduated from Adams Township High School in the class of 1949. She began her career as one of the first qualified Nurse EKG Technicians in private practice in Johnstown PA. and Pittsburgh PA. at West Penn Hospital. Upon relocating to Indiana, PA she continued working in medical billing at Indiana Hospital, and she held various positions including working for the Indiana County Courthouse. Betty was well known as the "Avon Lady”. She brought her humor and warmth to every encounter, creating many long-lasting friendships along the way. In 1982 she helped her son, Dr. William Vitalie, open his dental office and worked there as an office administrator for over 20 years.
Betty was very active in several community organizations having been the past President of Indiana Elks Women’s Auxiliary. She was an accomplished dancer, having won several jitter-bug dance contests. Betty danced through life continuing until two weeks ago. She turned strangers into friends, made dinners, family celebrations and any occasion fill with laughter with her simple request, “Let's dance”. She had learned to become a skilled Bridge player, was a passionate reader and was well known for her baking. She looked forward to the family trek to the Jersey Shore every summer. Most importantly, her life was passionately centered on her family and nothing brought her more joy than having all of her children and family near her.
Having become a member of St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church, she was very committed to having all five children graduate from its school.
Betty is survived by her devoted husband, William, and by her children: Dr. William A. Vitalie (Graciana), Tamra Lee Piccolo (John), James S. Vitalie (Lauren), Daniel A. Vitalie, and John R. Vitalie (Erik), 11 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. In addition, she is survived by a large extended family including many nieces and nephews.
Friends will be received Friday, January 28th from 2-4 and 6-8PM at the Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home & Crematory, of Indiana 965 Philadelphia St. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, January 29, 2022 at 11AM, at St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Church, Father Tage Danielson OFM, Cap., as celebrant. Masks are optional. Private interment will be in the St. Bernard Cemetery.
Online condolences may be offered by visiting: rbfh.net