Elizabeth 'Betty' Jane (Zilla) Bernett

Elizabeth “Betty” Jane Bernett, age 87, passed away Tuesday, April 26, 2011, at her residence. Betty was born in Racine, May 28, 1923, daughter of the late Louis J. and Mary “Mamie” (Nee: Benes) Zilla.

On March 1, 1947, at St. John Nepomuk Catholic Church she was united in marriage to Spencer D. Bernett, who preceded her in death, January 14, 1980. Betty was employed by St. Mary’s Medical Center for thirty-five years as a switchboard operator, retiring at 79 years of age. She was previously employed by Wisconsin Bell and an answering service for physicians. Betty will be fondly remembered as the “Betty Crocker of Racine,” an excellent cook and baker who made 30 variations of Christmas cookies, kringle and kolaches, and special cakes for everyone’s birthdays. She devoted and cherished time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and newborn babies. She will be deeply missed.

Survivors include her children, Linda (David) Peterson, Laura J. Bernett, Stuart A. Bernett, all of Racine, Karen (Marvin) Yakos of Eureka, MT, Steven A. Bernett, Spencer A. Bernett, both of Racine; son-in-law, Thomas Lukas of Racine; 14 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; brothers, William Frank Zilla of Racine; sister-in-law, Pat Bernett of Lynn Haven, FL; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Barbara Lukas, on May 20, 2010; brother, Louis Zilla Jr.; and sister, Marcella Lindh.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, May 3, 2011, at 11 a.m. at Emmaus Lutheran Church, 1925 Summit Ave., with Rev. Mary Janz officiating. Interment will follow at Graceland Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Monday at the funeral home from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. and Tuesday at the church from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888