Tatum Vittetoe-Sapinoro

Tatum Vittetoe-Sapinoro

1976-2022

Tatum Renee Vittetoe-Sapinoro, 45, of Austin, Texas, died Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2022, at home after a short illness. Tatum was born Nov. 22, 1976, in Ottumwa, the daughter of John Vittetoe and Dr. Sharon (Shari) Hammes. Tatum grew up in Sigourney and Iowa City and graduated from City High in 1998. She attended Kirkwood Community College and graduated with an associate degree in Business. While working for NCS Pearson in Iowa, Tatum traveled to numerous places throughout the U.S. In 1999 while traveling to Austin, Texas, she met Ray Sapinoro who would become her husband on March 22, 2003. Of this union, three children were born: Jaedyn, Hailey, and Colton. Tatum worked for PR by the Book and met many people who later became her friends. Besides spending time with her family and friends, Tatum had a passion for arts and craft projects, crocheting, and photography. She loved to travel and enjoyed visiting many states. One of her fondest memories was when she and Ray traveled to Europe for their 10th wedding anniversary. Tatum loved watching her children participate in sports, especially basketball, flag football, soccer, lacrosse, swimming and taekwondo. She often volunteered at these events and was her children’s greatest fan and supporter.

Tatum had a bright and energetic personality and was well known for her ability to sense when people needed help or a caring hand. She touched many lives with her generosity and passion for life. As her family and friends knew, Tatum was very considerate of others and her kindness was the foundation of her heart and soul. She possessed an innate ability to understand people and her smile was especially captivating and welcoming to many people. As Emy Sumauang commented: “Tatum was an amazing and lovely lady”.

Tatum is survived by her husband Ray and their children: Jaedyn Julian Sapinoro of Huntsville, Texas, Hailey Renee Sapinoro and Colton Ray Sapinoro of Austin, Texas, her parents John and Shari of Iowa City, two brothers: Travis (Lisa) Vittetoe of West Liberty and Troy (Hollie) Vittetoe of Iowa City, as well as her sister and best friend Kristina Vittetoe of Iowa City. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Mert Sapinoro of Seattle, Wash., six nephews: Austin Barnes, Aaron Barnes, Andrew Barnes, Dylan Vittetoe, Mack Vittetoe, and Jeffrey Sapinoro, as well as four nieces: Lily Barnes, Molly Vittetoe, Claire Vittetoe, and Ila Vittetoe, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Her friends were numerous, but especially close to her were Tammy Sumauang, Carol Killgore, Beba Clouse, and Shannon Strang.

Tatum was preceded in death by her father-and mother-in-law Mariano and Magdalena Sapinoro, her grandparents Jim and Iris Vittetoe and Lawrence (Bud) and Julia Hammes, and uncles: David Hammes, Lavern Peiffer and Ken Morlan.

A private family viewing was held Jan. 19, 2022. A Celebration of Life was held at Austin Christian Fellowship Church on January 22, 2022, with the Reverend Will Davis officiating.