Obituary for Elizabeth M. Wood
Elizabeth (Bette) M. Wood, 91, of Trempealeau, WI, died Saturday, March 9, 2013, at St. Joseph’s Care Center in La Crosse, WI. She was born November 27, 1921, in Beatrice, NE to Joseph and Pauline (Kulas) Earle. Elizabeth married John T. Wood, January 9, 1943, in Washington, D.C. They met while employed at the Pentagon at the beginning of WWII.
She is survived by her children; Margo (Tom) O’Malley, Robert (Janelle) Wood, Nancy (David) Rolbieki, Judy Nelson, Paula Isenberg, Suzanne (Jim) Freeman, Kurt (Val) Wood, and Renee Westberry. She is also survived by grandchildren; Michelle (Todd) Morgan, Brigid O’Malley (Mike), Scott (Kris) O’Malley, Lori (Tim) Felton, Dawn O’Malley (Steve), Krista O’Malley (Andrew), Dawn (Steve) Quast, Michele Wood, Heather (Kurt) Wegner, Jeff Rolbiecki, Brian (Mindy) Rolbiecki, Troy (Lyn) Rolbiecki, Tim (Melissa) Rolbiecki, Shannon Nelson, Jennifer (Jon) Wallenfelsz, Jaclyn Isenberg, Nick (Sara) Freeman, Craig (Malissa) Freeman, Colin Wood, Shilo Wood, Michael Westberry, and Matthew Westberry. Thirty-three great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. She is further survived by her younger sister, Polly Cerro.
Elizabeth was preceded in death by her husband, John in 1985, and daughter-in-law, Marie (Bautch) Wood, in 1995.
In addition to caring for a large family, mom took great pride in caring for an equally large garden and yard. When the family was young, mom’s kitchen was filled with the sounds of laundry, cooking, and Paul Harvey on the radio. Later when mom lived alone, her dinner cooked quietly in the microwave, one or two loads of laundry a week sufficed, and classic rock blasted on the radio all day long. Mom never forgot a birthday or anniversary. Recipients could always count on finding a brand new $2 bill inside their card. Mom had a good sense of humor, and amongst her friends, a good, hearty laugh was certain to be heard. She will be greatly missed by her family.
Thanks to all who offered kind words and prayers during mom’s final days. Special thanks to the Trempealeau First Responders, Dr. Dennis Ohlrogge and the rest of the terrific staff at Holmen Clinic, the many outstanding doctors, nurses, hospice staff personnel and other health care professionals at Franciscan Skemp Mayo Healthcare , Chaplain Kathleen Charles at Hospice, Father Doerre of St. Bartholemew’s, and finally, the wonderful staff at St. Joseph’s Care Center. You all have our heartfelt thanks for your kind and compassionate care of our mother/grandmother.
A celebration of Elizabeth’s life will be held at a later date. Information and on-line condolences may be given to the family at www.lacrossecremation.com.
The Sletten McKee Hanson Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements.
Tom Rand
March 12, 2013 @ 6:12 am
My sincere condolences and sympathies to Nancy, her family, Bob, his family and all of Betty’s family. I remember with fondness our families growing up together in Trempealeau. Lots of good memories from activities shared together. My best to all of you during this time of your loss. Tom Rand
Diana and Ken Wilber
March 12, 2013 @ 8:24 am
I’m sad to hear of Bette’s passing, we have great memories of her, the many days we would sit and talk at the picnic table and watch the garden grow. Your family is in our thoughts and prays.
Marie Eichman
March 13, 2013 @ 8:34 am
She will be missed.