Biography:
Thomas W. “T.K.” Kittinger, 68, of Littlestown, died Wed, Feb. 17, at his home. He was the husband of Denise A. (Nagle) Kittinger for 46 years. Born Nov 24, 1947 in Gettysburg, he was the son of the late J. Merle & Marie S. (Seiferd) Kittinger. Tom was a 1965 graduate of Fairfield High School, a 1969 B.A. degree grad from Anderson University, Indiana with a double major in Instrumental/Vocal Music and a 1978 graduate of Towson University, MD with a Masters of Music Education degree.
Surviving in addition to his wife, Denise, is his son, Thomas, Jr. & wife, Terri, of Lake Meade; his daughters, Gina R. Chroniger & husband, Steve, of New Oxford, and Kristy Kittinger of Dover; his 4 grandchildren: Brianna & Camdyn Kittinger and Parker and Colton Chroniger; his brother, James M. Kittinger & wife, Polly, of Fairfield and his sister, Mary Ann Remaley & husband, Robert, of Fairfield.
A lifelong resident of Adams County, T.K. began his musical career as the assistant organist at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Fairfield, while a sophomore in high school. This continued a long family history in that church as his grandmother was organist there for many years and his father sang in the choir and was often the soloist there. In 1969 – 99 Tom was the vocal music instructor at Maple Avenue Middle School/Littlestown High School. He taught 5th- 8th grade general music classes and also directed 6 choirs from 5th-12th grades during his 30-yrs of service to the district. In 1970 T.K. formed and started the first show choir in Adams and York counties – it was known as LHS Swing Choir and later became known as Fantasy and the Shining Stars. He was instrumental in helping other schools start a show choir. From 1971 to present, Tom was organist/choir director for Bart’s Centenary United Methodist Church, Littlestown. Also from 1971-present Tom was a private voice, piano and organ music instructor. From 2000-12, T.K. was an Adjunct professor of Music at Harrisburg Area Community College, main campus. From 1996-present he was Business Manager for Lancers Senior Alumni Drum & Bugle Corps of Hanover and Soprano Bugler. From 1996-2006, Tom was music director of the Broadway Show productions at Mount St. Mary’s University, Emmitsburg. From 2007 to present he was director of the Gettysburg Civic Chorus. Tom was a major influence as a teacher, mentor and friend to many student’s and other’s lives he touched.
Tom was 1978 recipient of the Outstanding Young Men of America award and 3-time nominee for “Who’s Who in America” and “Who’s Who in American Education”. He was a member of Bart’s Centenary United Methodist Church, Littlestown; Music Educators National Conference, Pennsylvania Music Educators Assoc., American Choral Directors Assoc., National Education Assoc. and Pennsylvania State Educators Assoc.
Memorial Service is Sat., March 12, at 2 P.M. at Gettysburg College Chapel, Washington St. with Pastor Emilia Burdick officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to: “Thomas W. Kittinger Memorial Fund”, P.O. Box 401, Littlestown, PA 17340. Please designate to be sent to either his church, Hanover Lancers or Gettysburg Civic Chorus. Online condolences may be shared on www.littlesfh.com.
Condolences(46)
sheny
Sep 13th, 2016 2:21 am
#46
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Frank Barchella
Jul 18th, 2016 6:50 pm
#45
Tom was a great man and very inspirational to so many. He lived his life with a purpose that few of us will ever know. I will perform the rest of this year and next in his honor and memory. May he rest in eternal peace. Sleep well friend.
Gary & Suetta Bechtel
Mar 3rd, 2016 12:56 pm
#44
Dear Denise and Family,
We just today read about Tom's passing last week. We have been traveling and not receiving the G-Burg Times. please accept our sincerest condolances at this sorrowful times in your lives. Tom was in all ways, a "super person" as his life's work showed. He will long be remembered for his love and joy of life, his music skills will serve as a beacon to all who have been touched by his work..in short he will be missed by many, many family and friends. Our hope and prayer for all of you is that you will find "Peace In Your Hearts" knowing that he is at Peace, and has assumed direction of "The Heavenly Choirs."
Sincerely, Suzie and Gary
We just today read about Tom's passing last week. We have been traveling and not receiving the G-Burg Times. please accept our sincerest condolances at this sorrowful times in your lives. Tom was in all ways, a "super person" as his life's work showed. He will long be remembered for his love and joy of life, his music skills will serve as a beacon to all who have been touched by his work..in short he will be missed by many, many family and friends. Our hope and prayer for all of you is that you will find "Peace In Your Hearts" knowing that he is at Peace, and has assumed direction of "The Heavenly Choirs."
Sincerely, Suzie and Gary
Deb Meckley
Feb 26th, 2016 9:57 am
#43
We all share in your loss of a wonderful and inspirational person. He inspired many of us to strive to be a better person. He instilled in his students that they could truly be more than they thought they could be. He had a gift to share to everyone with his music,as you can see by his many accomplishments in life. He truly loved music. We all are better people for knowing him. Now he is directing the angels in heaven singing praises to our loving God. My deepest sympathy to his family in their loss. Hold close to you heart memories of him and he will always be with you. RIP TK
Debra and Allen Ozminski
Feb 25th, 2016 3:03 pm
#42
In all the world we were truly blessed to know your loved one.Our hearts are full of hurt for you as you go through this difficult time of lost. He blessed so many with his talent and love for the arts. Our Shaun was just one of many who was given a chance by him. God bless you all.
Stu & Martha Sites
Feb 24th, 2016 9:52 pm
#41
Denise,family and extended family;
Our condolences to all. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Our condolences to all. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Debra Wills Heffner
Feb 24th, 2016 1:25 pm
#40
Mary Ann and Jim....my deepest sympathy to you both and your families. He shared his musical talent for the enjoyment of so many others. May you find comfort in your memories.
Tracy Perry
Feb 24th, 2016 1:02 pm
#39
My condolences to Denise and family. I will remember TK fondly and his presence, direction, and friendship will be sadly missed in the Lancer family and at Profiles in Music.
Heather and Demetrius Carbaugh
Feb 22nd, 2016 8:28 pm
#38
Sending our condolences and prayers for the entire family. Tom was a great person and will be missed.
Sally Albrecht
Feb 22nd, 2016 4:11 pm
#37
TK was definitely one of the best ever! Not only did he make shining stars out of his many students and singers, but he was one himself. His life will continue to shine in all of us through the music and love we now share in his memory.
Katie Wagaman ( Showvaker)
Feb 22nd, 2016 2:14 pm
#36
I want to wish my condolences to your entire family. TK provided me voice lessons and was my music teacher many years ago, but had a tremendous impact on my life and definitely helped to shape me into the person I am today. Not only did he provide vocal lessons, but also life lessons, advice, and a person to look up to. A great man and person. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.
Jenn Wootton
Feb 22nd, 2016 1:27 pm
#35
Just like so many others, Tom had a big influence on my family. Especially our 13 year old. Cambell has spent the last three years in private lessons with Tom, and he has learned so much from him. We are so thankful for his wisdom and talent, and for the many opportunities he has given Cambell to perform in those three years. We will all miss him so much. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Denise and the family during this difficult time.
Michele (Dennis) Wallace
Feb 22nd, 2016 12:19 pm
#34
Mrs. Kittinger, Tom, Gina, Kristy, and families,
I am so sorry for your loss. I have been praying that you feel God's comforting arms around you during these hard times. I hope that the out-pouring of love, support, and stories helps you through. TK is and will be greatly missed. His influence will stay with us the rest of our lives and beyond.
I am so sorry for your loss. I have been praying that you feel God's comforting arms around you during these hard times. I hope that the out-pouring of love, support, and stories helps you through. TK is and will be greatly missed. His influence will stay with us the rest of our lives and beyond.
Brenda Placke
Feb 22nd, 2016 10:25 am
#33
Tom (TK) was one of the most talented men I know. Whether musically or personally, he had the ability to work with others and instill in others a work ethic that proved useful for the remainder of our lives. We were all privileged to be students and friends of such an amazing man.
Stacy (Stambaugh) Hall
Feb 22nd, 2016 8:44 am
#32
My heart goes out to your family. TK had an amazing gift, not only musically, but also personally. He made us all feel like family. I cherish the memories of time spent learning from him, and am grateful to have known such a tremendous person.
Jennifer Conway (Gladfelter)
Feb 22nd, 2016 8:42 am
#31
Tk was very special to me he told my mom once which was very touching I\\\'ll never forget this \\\"Jen might not have a solo voice but if everybody would sing with the heart and desire she has I would have one terrific choir\\\" those words still come to mind every once in a while when I\\\'m feeling blue and they will continue to stay there for the rest of my life. He really touched my life and so sorry to hear about this family\\\'s loss he will truly be missed by me and many others.
Kim Dillman
Feb 21st, 2016 6:14 pm
#30
I would like to send my deepest sympathy to Denise and her family. I was so saddened to hear of TK\'s passing, he was a good and kind man and will be missed by many. I will be keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Steve & Karen Beard
Feb 21st, 2016 2:16 pm
#29
Denise and family, So sorry to hear of Tom's passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you!
Ben Adams
Feb 20th, 2016 11:45 pm
#28
My deepest sympathy goes out to Denise, Gina and Tom Jr. and their families. Sorry to hear the news of his passing. He was a great man always with a smile.
Dave and Mindy Reed
Feb 20th, 2016 9:23 pm
#27
TK touched so many lives while teaching at Littlestown. Dave and I were talking about Swing Choir and how he always worked to bring out the best in his students. We extend our
condolences to Denise and family. RIP TK
condolences to Denise and family. RIP TK
Bonnie Showvaker
Feb 20th, 2016 9:07 pm
#26
A classy man that touched so many people with his talents and caring heart. He knew how to light up a room with his brilliant personality. He will be tremendously missed.
Freda Bortner
Feb 20th, 2016 12:23 pm
#25
Our deepest sympathy to Denise, Gina and Tom Jr. & families. He truly was an inspiration to many. He not only used his talent but found the best in others and encouraged them to do the same. Littlestown has lost a great asset. Ted, Freda and Michael Bortner.
Alan Moose
Feb 20th, 2016 10:36 am
#24
My deepest sympathies to all of you. Tom always inspired me to reach deep within myself to become more than what I believed I could be. His influence on the community was tremendous and far reaching; and so, not easily forgotten. Thank you for giving so much to so many! Rest with Jesus!
Kimberly S. Renner
Feb 20th, 2016 10:26 am
#23
There are not enough words in all of the world to convey the depth of gratitude & adoration I have for this man. I undoubtedly would not be who I am today if it were not for TK and Fantasy & the Shining Stars. Denise, Gina, Tom, & Kristy, thank you for sharing this wonderful man with all of us & making us all feel part of your family. Our hearts go out to you & we all lift you up in this time of grief. We will all get through this, hand in hand.
Deborah (White) Pyles
Feb 20th, 2016 6:23 am
#22
My heartfelt condolences for the family on the loss of your beloved Tom. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Elaine Stair Pottorff
Feb 20th, 2016 5:14 am
#21
What an impact Tom has had on the entire Littlestown community and beyond! I'm proud to say that I was part of his early years at Littlestown; so many great memories of the Swing Choir. Everyone who ever had any contact with him is grieving.He was an inspiration to all, showing love and dedication to his family,students,and work. He was a Class Act. Prayers and love to Denise and family.
Jonathan Reck
Feb 20th, 2016 12:15 am
#20
I will miss my teacher, instructor, and friend very much. Life in the Lancers and Gettysburg Civic Chorus will feel empty without our leader at the helm. My prayers are with Denise and the Kittinger family. "You'll never walk alone..."
Elmer Bittle
Feb 19th, 2016 11:56 pm
#19
Tk was a very nice and kind person. My prayers go out to the entire family and may God's peace and comfort be with you all.
Wendy Ditzler Callaghan
Feb 19th, 2016 11:53 pm
#18
There are no words that I can say to ease the pain of your loss. My prayers are with you Denise and your family. May God give you peace and comfort. TK was a wonderful man and will be sorely missed!
Melinda Quick
Feb 19th, 2016 10:26 pm
#17
Love and prayers to your Family. TK was such an important part of so many young musical lives. He will live in the hearts and memories of many.
May you find comfort in your memories. He was truely one of the best.
May you find comfort in your memories. He was truely one of the best.
Sarah Warner
Feb 19th, 2016 9:59 pm
#16
The loss of a great man and good friend for over 35 years...It's hard to put into words what an influence he has been in our lives. He has meant so many things to the hundreds if not thousands of people he touched during his time on Earth. His music will play forever and rightfully so! I will miss you dearly TK!!
God Bless his family!
God Bless his family!
Joe & Janet Kane
Feb 19th, 2016 9:34 pm
#15
Tom was liked, loved and was a wonderful friend. Tom played the organ beautifully especially for our wedding.
Tom, you finally get to play the harp.
Love ya \"Brother\" and you will be sorely missed.
Denise and family, Joe and I are picturing Tom in Heaven leading the chorus along side his Dad with Mommy K. just being so proud.
Remember the good times you had with Tom.
Tom, you finally get to play the harp.
Love ya \"Brother\" and you will be sorely missed.
Denise and family, Joe and I are picturing Tom in Heaven leading the chorus along side his Dad with Mommy K. just being so proud.
Remember the good times you had with Tom.
Dianne Keniston
Feb 19th, 2016 9:26 pm
#14
Prayers and condolences for TK's family. He was a terrific man who cared about his music, family, friends and his community. Littlestown will not be the same without his big smile. He will be greatly missed .Sing in Paradise Tom.
Ellen Baumgardner Raggets
Feb 19th, 2016 8:32 pm
#13
So very sorry to hear about Tom's passing. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Janet E. McMaster
Feb 19th, 2016 8:28 pm
#12
To Denise and family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Phil Sanders
Feb 19th, 2016 8:17 pm
#11
Thoughts and prayers to the entire Kittinger family. The Littlestown and Adams County Community were blessed to have him share his musical and educational talents.
Rosemary Bogden
Feb 19th, 2016 7:29 pm
#10
I am so sorry for your loss. Tom was so talented and it was a joy to sing under his direction. May your memories sustain you all, and may God's love comfort you.
Deb Dillman Young
Feb 19th, 2016 7:27 pm
#9
So very sorry and sad to hear of the loss of this great man! He was a true inspiration and positively touched so many lives. His legacy will continue through all lives he has touched. Condolences to the family.
Len and Kathy Bucher
Feb 19th, 2016 7:22 pm
#8
TK touched many lives. We are so thankful to have been a part of that touch. Our love and prayers go out to the family. He will be missed by all.
Nance serio
Feb 19th, 2016 6:27 pm
#7
So thankful that I had the opportunity to know and sing with cantata/civic chorus under Tks direction. He was such a sweet, loving man! He will be dearly missed by myself and so many others. Prayers of comfort to his family at this time! Love always!
Ginny Bentzel
Feb 19th, 2016 5:52 pm
#6
So very sorry for your loss. Prayers for TK\'s family & God Bless all of them... He will be missed...
leppo family
Feb 19th, 2016 5:35 pm
#5
God saw tk getting tired, a cure not meant to be so god said tk come with me. Prayers for family
Bob & Jenny Stauffer
Feb 19th, 2016 5:34 pm
#4
A rare individual. Extremely Industrious, Incredibly Talented, Very Personable. Always made you feel like you were his best friend - all wrapped in one package. Not many like Tom, anywhere. God Rest His Soul!
Linda O'Connor
Feb 19th, 2016 5:30 pm
#3
So sorry to hear of Tom's passing. His voice will be greatly missed. From all his drum corps friends from across the country, thank you, Tom, for your outstanding leadership, your talent, and your example. Rest in peace.
Tony Shaeffer
Feb 19th, 2016 5:20 pm
#2
So sorry for your loss.TK will be missed by many but not forgotten!!!!! RIP T.K.!!!!!11
Lisa Marie Musselman-Unger
Feb 19th, 2016 5:00 pm
#1
I am sending condolences to the whole family. TK was a wonderful person and was liked by all. The L-town community will miss him dearly.
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