Obituary of Betty A. Anderson

Anderson, Betty A. of Saginaw, Michigan, passed away on Monday, July 15, 2024 at Independence Village of Saginaw with her children by her side.  She was 93 years old.

Betty Ann Gilgenbach was born on August 26, 1930 to Sylvia (Votapek) and William Gilgenbach in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  At an early age she moved with her parents to Menomonie, Wisconsin.  After graduating from Menomonie High School in 1948, she attended the University of Wisconsin Stout where she met her husband Milo (Mike) Anderson.  They were married on August 5, 1950 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Menomonie, Wisconsin; he preceded her in death on January 2, 2020 after 69 years of friendship and love.

Betty moved to Mondovi, Wisconsin in 1953, where Mike was a teacher and coach.  She was very active in the Sacred Heart Parish and school and held offices in the ladies Altar Society and the Church circles.  Betty ministered to others as a choir member for over 50 years, a Eucharistic minister, a lector and could be found reciting the Rosary before Mass.  She joyfully shared her faith with those at the American Lutheran Home by helping with the weekly prayer service and Mass.   Betty gave back to her community as a Boy Scout and Girl Scout leader, volunteering at the blood mobile and was an Election Poll Worker for many years. She had a heart to serve and will be remembered for her countless acts of kindness.

Upon retirement in 1988, Betty and Mike spent twenty plus years in Florida wintering in the sunshine state. This enjoyable part of their retired life was spent with wonderful new friends and many family gatherings. They spent their time golfing and exploring the state.

Betty is survived by her three children: Michael (Debra) Anderson, Carol (Michael) Collins and James (Mary) Anderson; five grandchildren: Dr. Ashley (Dr. Monte) Ketchum, Kristen (Brennan) Benson, Jeffrey M. (fiancée Emily Juckno) Collins, Dr. Bradley (girlfriend Darina Georgieva) Collins, Jeffrey J. (Whitney) Anderson; five great grandchildren: Tucker, Rylee and Gracie Ketchum, Paul Benson, Cooper Milo Anderson; her sister-in-law Sonja Gilgenbach; two Goddaughters: Heidi Schlumpf-Butler, Amy Schlumpf-Manion; plus many nieces and nephews.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers: William (Bill) and Robert; her sister Ruth McCormick; her sister-in-law Clara Krueger; two brothers-in-law: Richard Krueger, Herbert McCormick; her granddaughter Sara Anderson; and her nephew James Gilgenbach.

A Celebration of Betty’s Life will be held at Independence Village of Saginaw, 4141 McCarty Road, Saginaw, MI 48603, on Tuesday, July 23, 2024 from 1:15 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.

Visitation and Funeral will be held at Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, 453 W Hudson Street, Mondovi, WI 54755, on Saturday, July 27, 2024. Visitation will take place from 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. followed by the Funeral Liturgy. Rite of committal will take place in Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial to Most Scared Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, Mondovi Lions Club or a charity of your choice.

Please share your thoughts and memories with Betty’s family at Independence Village, the church or through www.DeislerFuneralHome.com