Betty Gaetke

Betty Jane Coakley Gaetke Dec. 25, 1911 - Nov. 6, 2010 Born on December 25, 1911 and died peacefully at her home in San Francisco, November 6, 2010. Betty was born in the Mission District, first generation San Franciscan, to Bridie and James Coakley. Betty was the loving wife of the late George O. Gaetke and the sister of Maryann (Mamie) Coakley Kaufman. She will be greatly missed by her daughter, Janeann Bailly; grandchildren, Jeffrey and Lisa Bailly; son-in-law, Sean Solway; great-grandchildren, Dillon and Lauren Solway. Betty attended St. Peter's Grammar and High School, class of 1930. She was a hat model for I. Magnin both during and after high school. Later, she worked at Traveler's Insurance Company. During this time she met the love of her life, George and was a great asset to him in building and growing his company; W.J. Burke and later Burke Concrete Accessories, Inc. Her later years were spent with her family, adoring and cherishing all the wonderful events of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Betty was a member of the Olympic Club and the St. Francis Yacht Club, which she patronized regularly. She was Chairman of Benefits for St. Stephens Guild under Father Powers. Her favorite places to travel were the Hawaiian Islands, the desert and most of all Carmel, where she married her husband at the Old Mission of Carmel. The family would especially like to thank June and Hiromu Sumi for the fifty-four devoted years to Betty and her family and to Georgia Wagner for the care and love she gave to Betty for the past eleven years. Also, to the wonderful caregivers for the past several years. Betty touched many lives, especially those closest to her; she will be greatly missed. A private service was held Friday, November 12. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Peters School Endowment Fund in memory of Betty Jane Coakley Gaetke, 1266 Florida Street, San Francisco, CA., 94110.