Traverse City - Betty Carolyn Sutfin, 74, of Traverse City passed away March 14, 2015, at Munson Medical Center.

Betty was born on September 6, 1940, to the late Morris and Marguerite (Carter) Hopper. She was raised on her family farm near Petoskey and loved all the animals especially the cows and cats.

On May 13, 1961, Betty married the love of her life, Melvin "Mel" Duane Sutfin in Epsilon. They shared 53 years of marriage together.

Betty loved people. She enjoyed making conversation with friends, especially on the telephone in later years. Betty was a very thoughtful person and often clipped out articles for friends and family that mentioned their name. She loved to go antiquing and garage saling and became quite the collector. Betty and Mel enjoyed travelling in their sail boat and also visiting family around the country. They were devoted members of Traverse Bay United Methodist Church where she enjoyed singing in the choir and volunteering in the nursery. Betty was a huge fan of Nascar and supported Dale Earnhardt. She was also instrumental in setting up the Area Agency on Aging here in Traverse City. In addition to caring for the elderly, Betty had a love for little ones and truly enjoyed their presence.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband Mel, daughter-in-law Cindy and sister Noreen Stark.

Betty is survived by her children, Randy Sutfin of New Orleans, LA; and Carol (Phillip) Popa of Traverse City; grandchildren, Joshua Sutfin, Brandon Sutfin and Allyson Popa.

The funeral will be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2015, at 12 Noon with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. at Traverse Bay United Methodist Church.

Graveside services will take place at Curtiss Cemetery near Petoskey on Thursday, April 23, 2015, at 2:00 p.m..

Memorial contributions in honor of Betty may be directed to Traverse Bay United Methodist Church, Epsilon United Methodist Church or the Cherryland Humane Society.