Betty Laux-Cole

On the morning of November 12, 2025, in the gentle stillness of Manistique, Michigan, Betty Jane Laux Cole slipped peacefully into her heavenly home, surrounded by the family whose love shaped her world. At 93, she left this life the same way she lived it quietly, gracefully, and wrapped in warmth.

Born in Clintonville, Wisconsin, Betty was welcomed into life by Henry and Mildred (Boetcher) Voelz, who taught her the values of faith, humility, and hard work. When the family moved north to operate the Pauley Cheese Factory, fate introduced her to Raymond "Roy" Laux, a young carpenter working on the building. Their love was simple and sincere, and on September 9, 1950, they joined their lives and began building a home full of laughter, purpose, and commitment. Roy preceded her in death in 1985.

Life brought love to her again when, in August 1986, she married George W. Cole. Together they journeyed through many chapters traveling, working, and embracing family every step of the way. They shared joyful years until George's passing in 2023.

Betty's hands rarely rested. They planted gardens, kneaded dough, stitched embroidery, bottled preserves, comforted children, and held the hands of those who needed care. She worked alongside Roy on the family farm and later devoted herself to caring for elders in assisted living, where her gentle spirit left lasting imprints on many hearts.

Her joy came from the simple things: warm bread cooling on the counter, the rhythm of her needle and thread, vegetables gathered at harvest, the hum of a busy kitchen, and the laughter of her grandchildren. Her love was quiet but steady felt in every meal prepared, every hug offered, every prayer whispered.

For 75 years, The Fayette Congregational Church was her spiritual home. She served faithfully in the Women's Fellowship, offering kindness, service, and a listening ear. Her faith was lived, not spoken-seen in her resilience, her gratitude, and her open heart.

Betty is survived by her loving children Carla (Tom) Flodin of Manistique, Rick (Jane) Laux of Fayette, and Connie Ball of Sault Ste. Marie; her six grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her stepchildren Larry (Cynthia) Cole of Sunfield, John (Michell) Cole of Houghton Lake, and Joanna Cole of Engadine; as well as 18 step-grandchildren and 17 step-great-grandchildren each carrying a piece of her kindness in their memories.

She is preceded in death by her parents, both of her husbands, several siblings, and dear family members who surely welcomed her with open arms.

And now, after a long and beautiful life of giving, tending, and loving, Betty rests in peace-her legacy blooming in the hearts of all who knew her.

Visitation will be held at The Fayette Congregational Church on Monday, November 17, 2025, with visitation for family & friends from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service with Jeff and Wally Fox officiating. Burial will take place at Hink's Cemetery in Fayette.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital, Schoolcraft Hospice, and Woodland Assisted Living for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Schoolcraft Hospice or The Fayette Congregational Church.

Fausett Family Funeral Homes is assisting the family with arrangements.