Betty Lenora Doebler

Betty Lenora Doebler, 92, completed her earthly accomplishments and went to be with her Lord Jesus Christ on October 25, 2018. Betty, beloved daughter, wife, mother and grandmother was born January 27, 1926 to the late Frank and Mabel (Rugenstein) Schmidt in Detroit. Betty was a lifelong Lutheran and had a very strong, unwavering, Christian faith often recalling her baptism, confirmation, marriage and those of her beloved family members, as the most important days of her life. She graduated from Denby High School in Detroit in 1944 where she was an excellent student and won many awards for her beautiful handwriting. In the third grade, Betty sent a Valentine to Mel, the cutest boy in the class. He didn't return her sentiment at the time but eventually he became her husband of 70 years. Betty and Mel were truly soul mates and forever companions as they raised their family and journeyed through life together. In addition to finding her husband at an early age, she also made lifelong friends whom she cherished in kindergarten. They called themselves 'the club girls" and continued to get together for lunch at least once a month until they were well into their 80's. Betty was the ultimate homemaker, always keeping the perfect home. She was passionate about baking and dessert was the highlight of every meal she served. Her specialties were pies, cookies, donuts and coffee cake. Many of her recipes were passed down to her from her mother and mother-in-law. She loved all holidays especially Christmas when she would make a vast variety of Christmas cookies that were enjoyed by all. In addition to baking, Betty enjoyed sewing and needle crafts. She loved to sew handmade gifts for her friends and family. She blessed many newborns with the gift of a homemade Raggedy Ann and Andy. She was the perfect grandma, doting on her three precious grandchildren, who lovingly called her Nanny. She supported them in all of their interests, loved them unconditionally and they equally adored her. Although they no longer live in the area, they called her frequently and she would call it a perfect day when she heard from all three grandchildren, which happened often. Betty is survived and missed dearly by her husband Mel, her daughters Darcy (JP) Milliken and D’Ann Voss, her precious grandchildren; Jack, Maggie and Kelly Milliken, her sister Sandra (Graham) Edwards, sister in law Alice Schmidt and her nieces and nephews; Lynn, Ron, Jan, Lori, Frank, Graham and Grier. She was preceded in death by her parents, Sister Doris Esau, Brother Frank Schmidt Jr. A celebration of Betty’s life and faith will take place Saturday November 3, 2018 at Trinity Lutheran Church at 1:00 pm. There will be an hour of visiting prior to the service. Betty’s final resting place will be Oakwood Cemetery. Please consider memorial contributions in Betty’s honor to Trinity Lutheran Church, 1003 S.Maple Rd, Traverse City, MI 49684 Visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your memories with the family on Betty’s tribute page. The family is being cared for and served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Betty Lenora Doebler

January 27, 1926 - October 25, 2018