Betty Szelagowski

Betty J. Szelagowski, age 99, of Wisconsin Rapids, passed away Friday, December 08, 2023, at Arborview Court in Wisconsin Rapids.
Betty was born in the small town of Sherry, Wisconsin, on September 21, 1924 to parents Matt and Louise (Sengstock) Marti. She was united in marriage to Eugene Szelagowski on January 19, 1946. Together, they raised three children, Jim, Terry and Gail.
Betty was a beacon of joy, love, and adventure. Betty's spirit was as vast and vibrant as the Wisconsin landscapes she so loved. She was a woman of many talents and passions, and the strength of her love for those around her was a testament to her boundless heart. Betty was an adventurous soul, always ready for a new experience or a journey to a beloved familiar place. She found peace and joy in nature, driving her camper up north to her favorite campsite to fish on the lake. Her fishing skills were legendary, and she could tell you tales that would make you laugh, gasp, and yearn for the open water.
Betty was a dedicated and hardworking woman. She spent her career as a housekeeper at Riverview Hospital, where she retired in 1988. She was known not only for her meticulous work but also for the love and care she put into every task. Her dedication to her work mirrored her dedication to her beloved Wisconsin sports teams. A devoted Braves, Brewers, Badgers, Packers, and Bucks fan, she brought energy and enthusiasm to every game she watched. Betty also had a playful side, enjoying a good game of sheepshead or a round of pool with the ladies. She was a lively polka dancer who moved with grace and joy, her laughter and merriment infectious.
Betty is survived by her children: Jim (Beverly) Szelagowski of Park Falls and Sebring, Florida, Terry (Pauline) Szelagowski of Wisconsin Rapids, and Gail (Bill Colby) Fuller of Wisconsin Rapids; grandchildren: Shelley (James) Christian of Bradenton, Florida, Jill (Jeremy) Mueller of Chilton, Jay (Mary) Szelagowski of Green Bay, and Jeffrey (Sheila) Szelagowski of Wisconsin Rapids.
She is further survived by step-grandchildren, Kyle Fuller and Kevin Fuller; great-grandchildren: Kailey and Loren Christian, Ben, Max and Maddie Mueller, Jacki and Jenny Szelagowski, and Jordan and Jarrett Szelagowski; step-great-grandchildren: Brian, Eric, Alex and Hailey; and her sister, Shirley Plavik. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband Eugene; and siblings: Reuben Marti, Harold Marti, Orville Marti, Dorothy Serchen, Viola Passineau, Marvin Marti, and Merlin Marti.
The funeral service will be held at 12:00 P.M. on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at Herman-Taylor Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids. Rev. Peter Plagenz will officiate. Burial will follow at Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. until the time of services on Thursday at the funeral home.
Herman-Taylor Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family.
Special thanks to the staff at Arborview Court for the love and care shown to Betty.