Elizabeth "Betty" Straszkowski

Obituary:

Elizabeth Straszkowski, lovingly known as Betty, passed away peacefully at her home on June 7, 2026, just two days after celebrating her 98th birthday. Born on June 5, 1928, in Thorp, Wisconsin, Betty was the cherished daughter of George and Anna (Oberle) Meske. Her life was a testament to love, resilience, and faith, and she leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished by her family and all who knew her.

Betty was united in marriage to Felix Straskowski on June 16th 1953, they spent 50 years together with whom she shared a remarkable journey of love and family. Together, they built a life marked by adventure and devotion. Their love story took them from the fields of Wisconsin to the military bases of Germany, and back again to Felix's parents' farm, where they spent 40 + years dairy farming and raising a family of eleven children. Known as Grandma Ski, Betty's legacy continues through her 27 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, 7 step-grandchildren, 12 step-great grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

A woman of deep faith, Betty was a devoted member of All Saints Parish in Stanley, where she was involved in the Parish Council of Catholic Women and dedicated 30+ years to teaching CCD. Her commitment to prayer was unwavering, her rosary ever-present in her hand. Betty's life was enriched by her love for her family and her community. She delighted in sending birthday cards to her large and extended family, always including a page of jokes to bring a smile. Her kindness and thoughtfulness knew no bounds, and she consistently placed the needs of others before her own. In addition to her family and faith, Betty's life was dedicated to service. She was involved in the Wisconsin Farmers Union as a youth leader, advocating for the rights and welfare of the farm community. After graduating from Thorp High School her adventures took her to Chicago, where she served as a nanny, then graduating from business school in Eau Claire, then worked for ITT in Thorp for seven years. Through each chapter of her life, Betty demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the well-being of others.

Betty is survived by her loving children: sons James (Nancy), Roger (Arlene), David, Patrick, and Douglas; daughters Nancy (James) Vrlicak, Susan (David) Benzschawel, Maribeth (Randy) Mahr, Karen (Scott) Ski-Sedivy, and Jayne Straszkowski; and daughter-in-law Jean Straskowski. She is also survived by her treasured sisters-in-laws Pearl Lake and Ruth Linnman.

Betty was preceded in death by her beloved husband Felix in 2004, her eldest son Phillip, her parents and her sisters, Margret, Mary Ann, Irene, Agnes, Beatrice, Delores and Loretta (in infancy). Her Father and Mother in-law and many sisters and brother’s in-law.

A funeral service to honor Betty's remarkable life will be Visitation at Plombon’s Funeral Home on June 15 from 4 till 7:00pm followed by a rosary. Tuesday morning visitation will continue at the funeral home at 9:30 AM until mass time on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Holy Family Catholic Church in Stanley with Father William Felix officiating. Burial will conclude her faith journey in Holy Family Catholic Cemetery-Stanley

Her family extends a special message of gratitude: "Forever in our Hearts. She was always thinking of others." In this time of sorrow, Betty's family finds comfort in the knowledge that she is reunited with her loved ones who have gone before her. Her spirit will remain a guiding light for generations to come, as her love and kindness continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. Betty will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

The family of Betty would like to thank you to care givers at Aspirus in Wausau, affectionately known as the Rosary Lady. And St. Croix Hospice.