Winnifred M. Betz

Age 102, of Louisville, passed away Friday, September 18, 2026. Winnifred, known as “Winnie”, was the daughter of the late James Earl and Elizabeth Katherine (Worm) Willis. She was born on August 1, 1924 in Minerva, the fifth of thirteen children.

Winnie graduated from Minerva High School in 1942 and worked various jobs, one of them being a Rosie the Riveter at a factory in Alliance during World War II. She married Donald L. Betz on February 3rd, 1951. He preceded her in death on September 19, 1983. Winnie was a homemaker, loving wife and mother. She participated in various bowling leagues since the 1960’s, enjoying that for several years, as well as gardening, softball, horseshoes, and mowing her lawn with her vintage Case tractor.

She is survived by a son, Gregory (Janice) Betz of Aurora, IL, son-in-law, Ronald Leber of Leland, IL, 2 grandchildren, Rachael (John) Bruhnke and Eric Betz, 5 great grandchildren; Katie and Matt Ellis; Jazmine, Mariah, and Eric Betz; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Along with her husband and parents, she is preceded in death by a daughter, Rhonda Leber and her sisters, Agnes Willis, Joetta Leyda, Jane Unkefer and brothers, James, Perry, Leland, Wilbur, Ralph, Lloyd, William, Richard and Robert Willis.

The family wishes to extend a very special thank you to neighbors and other family members who have helped Winnie with numerous things over the years.

Funeral services will be Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 11:00 am in the Gotschall-Hutchison Funeral Home in Minerva with Chaplain Freddy Rodriguez officiating. Burial will be in Grove Hill Cemetery in Hanoverton. Calling hours will be held Friday 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the funeral home. Those wishing to send condolences may sign the online register at www.gotschallfuneralhome.com.