Betty was born in Racine on June 13, 1930, to Arthur and Mathilda “Tillie” (nee: Kitzmann) Kitzman. She was a 1948 graduate (first graduating class) of Lutheran High School. Following, she went on to school to become a dental assistant.On February 29, 1953, in St. John’s Lutheran Church, she was united in marriage with the love of her life, Richard E. Phillips, who preceded her in death on March 29, 1998. During Dick’s 40-plus year career with Major League Baseball, they lived in various places in their lifetime including Hawaii and Vancouver. When Dick passed away in 1998, Betty moved back to hometown Racine.
A passionate and tireless volunteer dental assistant, Betty served the less fortunate in various communities for many years. However, her first priority in life was being a homemaker, mother and husband’s number one fan.
Betty was a member of Pentecost Ev. Lutheran Church where she enjoyed being involved in church clubs and committees. Proud of her alma mater, she was a dedicated volunteer of the Lutheran High School Thrift Shop. Among her interests, Betty was an avid reader who acquired an extensive library over the years; and enjoyed needlepoint and crocheting. Above all, she loved and cherished being in the surroundings of her entire family.
Surviving are her children, Daniel “Danny” (Erin Rooney-Phillips) Phillips of Racine, Karen (John) Stahlman of Plano, TX, and Jodi Kosempa of Charlotte, N.C.; grandchildren, Leilani and Kristina Kosempa, and Lauren Stahlman; mother, Tillie Kitzmann; sister, Shirley Bamford; sister-in-law, Phyllis Kitzman; brothers-in-law, Don (Bev) Phillips and Gene (Sonia) Phillips; many special nieces, nephews, other relatives, classmates and friends too numerous to mention by name.
In addition to her husband, Betty was preceded in death by her father, Arthur Kitzman; and brother, David Kitzman.
In accordance with Betty’s wishes, cremation will take place. A memorial service will be celebrated on Thursday, June 18, 2009, at 10 a.m. in Pentecost Ev. Lutheran Church, 2213 Coolidge Ave., with Rev. Milan J. Babel and Rev. Luke Jacob officiating. Entombment will follow in Graceland Cemetery. Visitation will be held in Pentecost Church, 2213 Coolidge Ave., on Wednesday from 4-6 p.m. and on Thursday from 9-10 a.m. In memory of Betty, memorials to her beloved Lutheran High School have been suggested.
Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home & Crematory
4600 County Line Rd., Racine 262-552-9000
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