Betty "Berthy" Hrody

Betty "Berthy" Hrody, born June 13, 1936, passed away suddenly on November 28, 2025, at 3:05 p.m. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, curiosity, spontaneous humor, and deep love. Born in Gstaad, Switzerland, she was the daughter of hardworking parents who struggled to provide for their children, but did so with selflessness and love.
Barely an adult, Betty left home to work in the United Kingdom. While working at a hotel, she met the woman who would later become her sister-in-law. That single encounter opened the door to a new chapter. She was soon invited to move to the United States to help care for the family, and she was proud and excited to become a United States citizen. One day, while visiting his sister, a man named Bill returned on leave from his military station in Germany, only to be greeted at the door by Betty. They fell in love, and she later built her life in Oak Park, Illinois with her husband, William F. Hrody (July 31, 1934 to January 3, 1999), and their daughters, Victoria (Vikki) and Elizabeth (Betsy).
Betty was known for her love of learning. She enjoyed reading about history, archeology, animals, and science, and was excited to share what she learned with others. She called this her "schooling." She found whimsy and wonder in everyday life, noticing small details that others might overlook, and the beauty in the smallest of moments. She supported many causes that helped animals and people in need, first responders, and members of the military. She deeply loved all animals, big or small.
Daily routines brought her joy. She took great pride in her appearance, choosing among her flowered blouses, matching scarves, and getting her hair and nails done. She treasured the small butterfly clips someone once gave her and wore them often. She enjoyed crafting, coloring, puzzles, music, fruits and veggies, and her essential morning coffee. On her last day, she woke simply wanting her cup of coffee, a comfort she cherished throughout her life.
Betty had a lively personality. She could be spicy and honest when she was not feeling well or had a concern, and her humor often followed. Her green eyes were bright and expressive, and when she smiled and tilted her gaze, people felt drawn to her. Her laugh was warm and contagious. Though others admired her charm, intelligence, and multilingual abilities, she never believed it. She sometimes felt shy about her heavy Swiss accent and felt less educated than others, even though she carried many stories and spoke several languages. She taught herself English by watching TV, learning with determination and pride. Her daughters often reminded her of how remarkable she truly was.
Her Swiss roots remained important throughout her life and a member of the Swiss Benevolent Society. Vikki lovingly called her "Tender Frau" and "Swiss Miss," sweet reminders of her heritage. She spoke often of her beloved father, Manfred, and she cherished the memory of her brother Robbie, whom she missed every day. She was a fearless warrior when caring for her daughter Betsy, never giving up on either of her children when they needed help.
She spent her later years at Belmont Village in Carol Stream, where she made many friends and found joy in the activities offered there. This brought a renewed happiness to her days. She adored her nurses, her PALs, the good friends she made, and her activities director. They brought care, comfort, routine, and companionship into her daily life.
Staff and residents often said she brought warmth and kindness into every room. She remained clear minded, engaged, and full of stories, always ready to learn, laugh, and connect.
She faced health challenges with grace and held onto her personality through it all. Her daughters were her greatest pride. To those who knew her, she was truly an angel in human form. She is survived by her daughters, Victoria (Vikki) and Elizabeth (Betsy), as well as the many people whose lives she touched.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Theis-Gorski Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3517 N Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60641.
Flowers are welcome, along with donations to Belmont Village at Carol Stream, 545 Belmont Ln, Carol Stream, IL 60188, to help support the incredible nurses, PALs, and staff who serve the Circle of Friends Memory Program and Activities. Contributions must be made via check, no cash please. Please make checks payable to Belmont Village at Carol Stream and note "In memory of Betty Hrody 202" in the memo line. Checks may be mailed to the community or dropped off with the Concierge, marked to the attention of Justin Thomas, Executive Director.
In her memory, read something new, enjoy a good meal, listen to a favorite song, and find a small moment of joy in a warm caffe latte, just as she did each day.