Obituary of a Cherished Family Man and Leader
Bernard Jay Pitts
September 4, 1948 – December 6, 2023
A good man has passed on…Bernard Jay Pitts; beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend died peacefully at home on December 6, 2023. Born in Alton, Illinois, on September 4, 1948, the son of the late Richard and Rose Pitts, Bernard was the eldest of five children. He grew up instilled with a spirit of devotion, loyalty, generosity, resourcefulness, and a mild temperament—traits that defined his entire life.
His academic journey began at Alton Senior High School in Alton, Illinois and continued through Tarkio College, Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, Oregon State University and finally Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas. His passion for sports shone brightly as a Collegiate All-American basketball player, laying the foundation for a lifetime love of sports, particularly his mistress—golf.
Professionally, Bernard made a significant impact in the world of education and the welfare of college students. His 44 year career journey took him to eight colleges and universities. As the Assistant Vice President for Student Life at Kansas State University, his dedication to student welfare was unmatched and unwavering. This commitment was recognized in 2011 when he was awarded the K-State Putting Students First Award, celebrating his exceptional efforts in advising, teaching, and serving the college student community.
His influence extended beyond the university as a former national president of the Association of College Unions International. Bernard was awarded the prestigious Butts-Whiting Award in 2005 and an Honorary Membership in 2015. He believed in the power of strong communities and contributed significantly to various community and educational boards; including the First Tee of Manhattan Board of Directors, Boys and Girls Club Board of Governors, the Flint Hills Regional Leadership program, Manhattan Chamber of Commerce committees, HBCUs Honda All-Star Challenge Advisory Board, and the Brown Foundation for Educational Equity/Research Board of Directors.
Bernard retired to Meridian, ID in 2011 and lived there with his loving wife of 49 years, Candice Hironaka Pitts. He was a rock-solid presence in the lives of his family and friends. His dedication to his family was evident in every aspect of his life. Bernard leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and kindness, survived by his wife, Candice; son Myles & Elizabeth Pitts and treasured grandson Greyson Bernard of Fort Worth, TX and his comfort dog, BeCee. Beloved brothers are Gerald & Diann Pitts of Perris, CA and Steven & Patti Pitts of Tampa, FL. His cherished sisters are Kim & Lorenzo Walker of Des Moines, WA and Kay Pitts-Walton of Federal Way, WA. Bernard leaves many nephews, nieces, and a score of cousins and other family members.
Bernard’s passing is a significant loss to all who knew him, but his memory will forever be a beacon of inspiration. His was a life well-lived, marked by unwavering commitment to his family, friends and community. He will be profoundly missed, but not forgotten. A celebration of his life will be held when golfing weather returns to Idaho and we can gather to remember Bernard’s life journey.
A memorial for Bernard has been established at the Kansas State University Foundation. The Bernard J. Pitts Memorial Fund will be dedicated to Bernard’s passion for the ongoing work at the K-State Student Union and opportunities for multicultural students. Contributions may be sent to: KSU Foundation, 1800 Kimball Ave., Ste 200, Manhattan, KS 66502. Please indicate fund M47460. To make a gift online, go to www.ksufoundation.org/give/pitts