Tributes

On February 17, 2015 Charles James Kittell went to be with our Lord at the age of 86. Jim was born on February 20, 1928 in San Diego, California and spent his childhood growing up in Lewistown and Missoula, Montana. He graduated from Missoula County High School in 1946. After making the All-American track team in 1945 he was invited to the Olympic Trials where he qualified as the alternate for the 1948 Olympics track team. He received his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Notre Dame in 1951. Upon graduation, he served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. When he returned home, he met his soul mate and wife of 62 years, Florence. He went on to receive his Masters of Education from Trinity University San Antonio in 1953 and began his public education career as a teacher and coach at Edgewood High School. After two years he transferred to the old Edison High School in the San Antonio Independent School District. When Edison became Whittier Junior High School he stayed until he became vice-principal at Breckenridge High School. His tenure at Breckenridge was interrupted when he was recalled back to active duty where he served thirteen months in Vietnam as the Aeromedical Evacuation Commander of the 34AES. After returning to the civilian world he continued his service to his country in the Air Force Reserve. In 1969, he served as principal for at Whittier Middle School for nine years before becoming principal at Lowell Middle School for eleven more years of public education service before retiring. Upon his retirement from public school education he accepted the position of principal at Antonian College Preparatory High School. During his eight years at Antonian, the school underwent major changes, becoming co-ed and tripling the student population. He was also proud of establishing a stringent academic program which was able to produce National Merit Scholars. While educating the future of America, Jim continued to serve in the Air Force Reserves. During his reserve status he was stationed at Wilford Hall Medical Center where in 1987, he was selected as the nation's most outstanding Medical Service Corp MSC.The following year he was promoted to Colonel at which rank he retired in 1988, after having served 37 years. His commitment to education and country earned him numerous medals and countless awards for his outstanding efforts and contributions. Jim enjoyed helping family, friends and neighbors and displayed a life of integrity and incredible work ethics. His unselfish giving of himself was treasured by all. He was loved and respected by many and had a positive influence on the countless lives he touched. He always did it "his way," and his way will be missed by all those he left behind. We know he is in heaven, taking charge, and getting things ready "his way" for us when we meet again. Jim was preceded in death by his parents Ira and Laura Kittell and his brother Ted Kittell. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Florence Willems Kittell, their two daughters Patricia Kittell Limerick and Laura Anastasi and her husband Rick Anastasi. He is also survived by grandsons Todd Ryan Limerick and his wife Jennifer, Nicholas Adam Limerick and his wife Jennifer, and Aaron Joseph Limerick and his wife Carrie. His great grandchildren are Jacob Ryan, Parker Reed, Shannon Nicole, Gabriel Joseph, and Colleen Brenna. He is also survived by his sister, Penny Sipes and brother-in-law Joe Willems and his wife Marilyn, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. Jim will celebrate his 87th birthday with a rosary on Friday, February 20, 2015 at Mission Park North Chapel at 7 in the evening. His farewell Mass will be held on Saturday, February 21 at 11:00 am in the Antonian College Preparatory High School Chapel. Any donations in his name can be made to Antonian College Preparatory High School.

Tributes

Charles James Kittell

February 20, 1928 - February 17, 2015