Betty Jean Beyer

Betty J. Beyer, 89, passed away on Friday, September 13th, just two days short of her 90th birthday. She passed peacefully with family by her side. She was born on September 15, 1934, in Georgia to Susie and Ira Caldwell and had one older sister, Mary. In their early years, Betty and Mary were raised by their Aunt Pearl and Uncle Jake in Florida.

Betty and her husband, Joseph Martin, married in 1954 and started their family in Fort Myers, Florida. Over the next 7 years they welcomed five children, 4 sons (2 identical twins) and one daughter. They raised their children in North Pekin, IL and later moved to Appleton, WI. Joe worked at Honeywell and Betty worked in the school cafeteria and later at Zaugs Vending.

Betty’s first husband, Joe, passed away at 42 years old. She married Wilmer Beyer in 1979, who she met through her neighbor on a blind date. Betty and Wil enjoyed fishing from their pontoon boat, bowling, cookouts with family, celebrating birthdays and holidays, cheering for the Packers and occasional trips to the casino. Betty was an avid crocheter and gifted many beautiful afghans, potholders, dish cloths, and scarves. During the holidays, Betty spent countless hours making elaborate Christmas candy and baking cookies for her family and friends.

Betty is survived by her children: Mike (Donna) Martin, Don (Brenda) Martin, Ron (Donna) Martin, Mark (Debbie) Martin, and Dianna (Dan) Rockey; grandchildren: Joe (Erin), Travis (Janell), Trevor (Jodi), Tarah (Dan), Jamie (Karl), Katie (Dan), Ashley, Chelsey (Troy), and Nicole (Jason); 15 great grandchildren with one more on the way; brother-in-law and sister-in-law: Dean Beyer and Marlene Neuber; and additional nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands: Joseph Martin and Wilmer Beyer; her sister: Mary (Jim) Rodecap; and her Aunt Pearl and Uncle Jake.

Funeral services will be at 11:00am, on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at the Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior St., Appleton. Visitation will be on Thursday at the funeral home from 9:30am until the time of the service. Interment will be in Highland Memorial Park, Appleton. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established.

Betty’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Country Villa Assisted Living in Freedom, WI and the staff at Heartland Hospice for their care, compassion, and kindness. They would also like to express gratitude to Chaplain William Van Dynhoven and Dr. Laura Verhagen for their invaluable, caring visits and generous time. Lastly, a special thank you to Dianna and Dan for everything you’ve done for mom!