Elizabeth "Betty" J. Fleis

February 2, 1927 - October 26, 2019

Betty J. Fleis, a life-long resident of Traverse City, passed away on October 26, 2019, at the age of 92. She was born on February 2, 1927, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Irvin and Emma (Knepper) Equitz. She met her husband of 47 years, Thomas J. Fleis, while she was working on the railroad. They were married on February 15, 1947. Betty was a seamstress and worked at Tru-Fit Trousers for many years. She was a member of the V.F.W. Women's Auxiliary and Saint Francis Catholic Church. She enjoyed sewing, reading, playing cards, watching Wheel of Fortune, and her favorite pastime was BINGO. She is survived by her children: Nancy LaBonte, Barbara Arteaga, Terri (Larry) Lautner, Dorothy (Pete) Grant, Joseph Fleis, Patti (Steve) Fleis, Daniel Fleis, Mary (Dan) Snyder, Rose (Rick) Johnson; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Betty was preceded in death by both parents; her husband, Thomas Fleis; her sons, Thomas Fleis Jr., John Fleis, Steve Fleis; her daughter, Margie Deadman; her grandsons, Tod Lautner, Ryan Leach, and Daniel Fleis Jr.; as well as all her brothers and sisters. A memorial service honoring Betty will take place at 11:00 a.m., with visitation one hour prior, on Wednesday, October 30, 2019, at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Rev. Fr. Kenneth Stachnik will officiate and a luncheon will follow. Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Betty’s family at her tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.