Vanita Breza

Vanita “Nita” Breza, age 99, of Winona, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2018, at Watkin’s Assisted Living, Winona.

Vanita was born September 15, 1918, in Winona, MN to Elsie E. (Nelton) and Victor Z. Bitu.

She married John “Chet” Breza on Sept. 23, 1939, in Winona. Chet preceded her in death on Nov. 23, 1989.

Vanita was known for her pleasant personality by everyone who met her.

Along with Chet, they managed the Sterling Motel from 1966 to 1974.

She and Chet especially enjoyed entertaining their grandchildren with camping trips and outings.

Thank you to those at the Watkins’s Manor Assisted Living who cared for her during the 7 1/2 years she enjoyed there. A special thank you to granddaughter, Brenda Teter, who provided around the clock comfort and care to Vanita for her last days.

Nita is survived by two daughters: Barbara (Jerry) Kiral, Rosemount, MN; and Vicki (David) Thrune, Winona; brother, Jon Bitu, Goodview, MN; grandchildren: Brenda (Brian) Teter, Welch, MN; Lisa (Mark) Walters, Minnesota City, MN; and Noah Thrune, Winona; and five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brothers: Victor Jr. and Jenus Bitu; grandsons: John Thrune and Scott Kiral; and great-granddaughter, Emma Walters.

Visitation will be held from 11:30 AM until the funeral service at 12:30 PM on Thursday, January 25, 2018, in the Commons of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1303 West Broadway, Winona.   The Reverend Paul J. Breza will officiate.  Nita will be laid to rest in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Online condolences or memories may be left at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.

Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.