Bethany Steffey

Bethany Margherite Steffey passed away January 4, 2022. She was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan on November 24, 1921. She lived in Lansing, attending Lansing schools, before moving to Albion, where she graduated from high school and attended Albion College. After college, she attended the Edward W. Sparrow Hospital three-year school of nursing, where she received her Registered Nursing Degree.
In 1944, she married Private First-Class Joseph C. Steffey, later Dr. Joseph C. Steffey, M.D. In 1957 they moved to Traverse City from Ann Arbor. Dr. Steffey joined the Thirlby Clinic and Beth became very active in civic projects. She was an active member in the Women's Medical Auxiliary and was a past president of the Trillium Garden Club. She was an honorary life member of the Federated Garden Clubs of Michigan, a charter member and several times past president of the Mizuumi Chapter 165 of Ikebana International.
Beth brought a smile and helping hand to all she encountered. During her last months, she was so moved by the kindness and support given by friends and family. " I knew I had wonderful friends, but the out- pouring of kindness and support by friends, old and new, and recent acquaintances have been so moving. I wish I had a way to sincerely thank each person, but with my remaining time on earth that's not possible" This will be her thanks to all.
She was preceded in death by her parents Victor and Madolin Sullivan, her husband Dr. Joseph C. Steffey and daughter Susan B. Castle. She is survived by her brother C. John Sullivan, Lake Worth, Florida, and three children, Joseph W. Steffey, D.C., Nancy Haney, and David J. Steffey, M.D. She is survived as well by six grandchildren, Scott (Jackie) Haney, Ann Haney, Deborah (Cameron) Chapin, Rebecca Haney, David M. Castle, and Lauren Steffey. She had five great grandchildren, Carolyn and Lucy Haney, Keira and Mason Castle, and Cater Chapin.
An open house gathering will take place on Saturday January 22, 2022 at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home from 1:00pm-2:45pm.
Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.
Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your memories with the family.