Elizabeth J. Anderson

Elizabeth "Betty" Jane Anderson, 93, of St. Joseph previously of Kingsford, Mich., passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025, at Corewell Health-Hanson Hospice Center.

Betty was born on April 23, 1931, in Iron Mountain, Mich., to the late Oliver and Elizabeth (Krall) Gribble. She grew up in Kingsford and graduated from Kingsford High School in 1949. After high school, she worked for Wisconsin Telephone Co. and Michigan Bell Telephone Co. Her most important role, however, was dedicating herself to raising her family. Once her children were raised, she rejoined the workforce at Colenso's and Perina's.

On Aug. 8, 1953, Betty married the love of her life, Dennis R. Anderson, at St. Mary Queen of Peace Church. They shared 69 wonderful years together. In her free time, Betty enjoyed crewel embroidery, flower gardening, baking, crossword puzzles and reading. She was an active member of the Iron Mountain-Kingston GF Women's Club, a weekly card group and a former member of the Lady Elk's Club. During the winter months, she and Dennis cherished their time in Florida and Arizona. Above all, Betty treasured the moments spent with her family, especially her great-grandchildren, whom she lovingly called her "Dollies."

Betty is survived by her daughters: Lisa (Dr. Don) Walla of Lincoln, Neb., Laurie Caple of St. Joseph and Lynn (Tom) Petroff of Marquette, Mich.; six grandchildren: Elizabeth (Mark Reyes) Walla, Emily (Mike Bell) Walla, Stephen (Adelae) Caple, Ethan Caple, Lauren (Brandon) White and Kyle (Anthony) Petroff; six great-grandchildren: Eleanor "Nori", Elizabeth "Birdie", Arlo, Asher, Leighton, Holland and one on the way; nieces: Susan and Pamela; nephew, Michael and brother-in-law, David Loring.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather, Mike Ohmen; sisters: Gerri (Bruce) Hedlund, Rita (Stanley) Major and Janet Loring; in-laws: Alfred and Elna Anderson; son-in-law, Dr. James Caple; siblings-in-law: Stanley Major, Bruce Hedlund and Grace (Dwight) Nieforth; niece, Terry Jo Carlson and nephew, David Carlson.

A celebration of life service will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 10 at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Road, with Deacon Jason Schmidt officiating. Friends may visit with the family one hour prior to the time of the service at the funeral home. The burial will take place in Calvary Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Benton Harbor Soup Kitchen, P.O. Box 8210, Benton Harbor, MI 49023. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.