Harriet Witt Obituary

Harriet Witt
February 7, 2025
Harriet Witt passed away peacefully on Friday, February 7, 2025, after a short illness. Born August 17, 1937, in Pittsburgh, PA to Anna and John Wensell, hers was a wonderful life, spanning 87 years and making a lasting impression on all who met her along the way. Harriet is survived by her beloved husband of 67 years, David J. Witt. She was a loving mother to Janine Murray (John), Joyce Witt (Tom George), Joanne Burstell (Jay) and John Witt; and her sisters, Barbara Kapinus and Anne Zajac (Fred); and an adoring grandmother to Colin Murray (Emma Schmidtlein), Jack and Owen Murray and Madelyn and Alexandra Burstell. She spent her early years in Pittsburgh, PA where she met David and then moved to Baldwinsville, NY, where they raised their family. Harriet was a graduate of Shaler High School in Pittsburgh, PA and received her associate's degree from Central City Business Institute in Syracuse. She worked for many years for the Baldwinsville school district and thereafter for General Electric as an executive assistant.Known for her optimism, energetic personality, and dedication to her family, she never wavered in her faith in God and in the goodness of people. Harriet had a thirst for adventure and a talent for creating, repairing, and mending, whether it be a skirt, a pair of pants or a school science project. She lived a full life, where she traveled, extensively, cruised the world, and explored all corners of the US by RV. She could frequently be found as co-pilot to her Captain Dave - whether at the wheel of a car or the cockpit of his plane - often heading to major events for her kids and grandkids or road tripping to Florida to escape the winter blizzards of Central NY. Her grandchildren will remember her as a keen strategist and tactician, challenging them to marathon board and card games at family gatherings and Holidays. Harriet always had multiple craft and sewing projects in-flight for her many family members, whether at home or on the road. She was also a passionate gardener who patiently nurtured flowers, herbs and vegetables, from seed to harvest, to the dinner table. Harriet was always known for sending cards for any and all occasions, holidays and birthdays, to all her family and friends. One was never far from her reach, as a thoughtful card would appear in the mail for every occasion, big or small. She was even known to write thank you notes to those who sent her thank you notes. As a result, her home was a colorful and copious assemblage of photographs, cards and memorabilia from her extensive relationships, travels, and adventures. Harriet was also a prolific volunteer in and around the Baldwinsville community at civic organizations including St. Mary's Church, The Columbiettes, Ladies with Red Hats, local hospital, and Meals-on-Wheels.Harriet was truly a kind, gentle and loving soul, who will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Her family asks that she be remembered for the joy she brought to others in life and not the sadness of her passing. Calling hours will be held on Friday, February 14, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Falardeau Funeral Home, 93 Downer St., Baldwinsville. A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, February 15, at 10:00 a.m. in St. Mary's Church, 47 Syracuse St., Baldwinsville. A reception will follow in the Gathering Space at St. Mary's Church immediately following the funeral Mass. Guestbook at FalardeauFH.com.