Berneice "Bunny" Nittler

Berneice “Bunny” Nittler, a beloved matriarch and treasured friend, passed away peacefully at her daughter’s home in Donna, Texas, on May 20, 2025, at the remarkable age of 102. Born on March 29, 1923, in Electra, Texas, Bunny lived a long and meaningful life rooted in love, service, and unwavering faith — a life that touched countless hearts across generations.

Berneice was affectionately known by her close friends as “Bunny” for most of her life—a nickname she preferred over her given name. The story behind it began in grade school, when she won an Easter egg hunt and was awarded a stuffed Easter bunny as a prize. From that moment on, her classmates began calling her “Bunny,” and the name stuck with her ever since. Over the years, she was a little tired of the nickname, but it was hard to lose.

Berneice was introduced to the love of her life in a storybook moment arranged by her parents, who brought her to a dance in Lasara. Her father had mentioned the event to Harold “H” “Top” Nittler, and fate took care of the rest. From the moment Bunny laid eyes on him, she was smitten. She thought he was the most handsome man she had ever seen. Harold, a bit older, came with all the qualities Bunny admired: a steady job, a strong sense of responsibility, and even his own car — a rare luxury at the time. On one of their early dates to the skating rink, “H” glided across the floor with such ease and style that he looked like a professional, only deepening Bunny’s admiration. It was the beginning of a lifelong love.

Bunny was first and foremost a homemaker; she stayed home with the children and managed the Nittler household most of her career. The Nittler home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and love, especially during holidays like Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving. Her thoughtfully decorated spaces and lovingly prepared meals created an atmosphere of joy and togetherness that will remain etched in the hearts of her family forever. Her beloved culinary gifts, especially her famous beer chicken, tacos, and fried fish, were staples at every family gathering.

Later, she began her journey outside the home as a bookkeeper and secretary for the local water district. She later found her true calling as the school secretary for the Monte Alto Independent School District, where her warm presence, keen organizational skills, and quiet strength became a cornerstone of the school community. Admired by students, teachers, and administrators alike, she brought kindness and order to every task and left an enduring legacy of compassion and integrity.

A devout Catholic, Bunny’s faith was the foundation of her life. She attended Mass regularly and, after the onset of COVID, found comfort in receiving Holy Communion at home — a ritual that sustained her spiritually and emotionally. Her deep spirituality inspired a life of service, including years of volunteer work at Knapp Memorial Hospital and active involvement with the Weslaco Elks. Through her actions and example, she quietly ministered to others, embodying grace, humility, and generosity.

Bunny’s personality was a unique and cherished blend of grace under pressure, boundless love, and a playful competitive streak. Whether crafting, playing cards, or casting a line at Falcon Lake with “H” or the grandchildren, she found joy in life’s simple pleasures, always accompanied by laughter and shared stories. Bunny was the steady anchor her family and friends leaned on in times of hardship, offering comfort through her calm and caring nature. Yet, her spirited determination shone through around the card table or out on the water. She didn’t just play for fun — she played to win. And when the day’s catch was done, she’d clean, fillet, and fry the fish herself, much to everyone’s delight. Those moments, filled with her warmth and spark, live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

One of Bunny’s proudest accomplishments was her extensive collection of cups and saucers, many of which she hand-painted. Each set was carefully selected, matched perfectly, and thoughtfully displayed in her home. She also had an intricate ceramic collection, a reflection of her artistic flair and natural creativity.

A true sister in spirit and camaraderie, Bunny embraced adventure with open arms, traveling across the United States in her fifth wheel, always surrounded by friends and guided by curiosity and joy. Her adventurous heart mirrored the same passion she brought to family celebrations, where every detail, from the food to the laughter, was infused with her love. She was the heartbeat of these gatherings, but Bunny never sought the spotlight. Her joy came from bringing people together, creating cherished memories, and quietly ensuring everyone felt special and cared for.

Berneice “Bunny” was preceded in death by her parents, William and Clara (Mengwasser) Eckelkamp, her loving husband, Harold “Top” Nittler, and her sister, Ida Johnstone.

She is survived by her son, Mark Nittler (Jane), daughters, Linda Fasano (Tony), Luann Walker (John), her brother, Jesse Eckelkamp (Patsy), grandchildren, Jeffrey Fasano, Christopher Fasano (Courtney), Eric Fasano (Tara), David Nittler (Katee), Patrick Nittler, Steven Nittler, James Walker, Jared Walker, grandchildren, Case Fasano, Gage Fasano, Kai Fasano, Shelby Nittler, Reese Nittler, Josh Nittler, Laney Nittler, Zachary Nittler, Levi Nittler, Daniel Nittler, and Luke Nittler, and numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Highland Memorial Park, followed by a reception at McCaleb Funeral Home in Weslaco.