Elizabeth M Gabbert

Elizabeth "Betty" Gabbert, 99, of Oshkosh, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 29th, 2018. Born in Milwaukee on January 6th, 1919, daughter of Edwin and Augusta (Abraham) Schulz; she was the mainstay of her family, especially after the death of her mother when Elizabeth was 18. In 1947, she married her beloved husband, Richard Gabbert, after he had served six years in the Navy. They were blessed to have almost 60 years of marriage prior to his passing in 2007. She worked part-time at St. Paul's UCC once her daughters were in school, but eventually full-time at Advertising Letter Service, even helping out occasionally when she was in her 70's. Taking care of her family was always her priority, and she did it well. Betty sewed most of our clothes, cooked and baked delicious meals, and set a good example of how to treat people and animals. She loved feeding the birds, bunnies and squirrels. There was even a squirrel that would regularly climb the steps to the side door, knowing Mom would give it a peanut. Being a grandmother brought her so much joy. She was a quiet guiding presence in all our lives.

Betty is survived by two daughters, their husbands, and her cherished grandchildren: Mary (David) Schultz and their children: Christopher Schultz and Lindsay (Mitch) Schultz-Wolfrath, and Linda (Michael) Gruhlke and their children: Elizabeth (Heath) Torstveit and Morgan (Linsey Cannell) Gruhlke; her younger sister, June Kleppinger, Pennsylvania; two special nieces: Mary Andrasko, Oshkosh, and Gail Saraceno, Pennsylvania; several dear friends (you know who you are). She also loved and leaves behind her fur-grandkid, Lucy and fur-great-grandkids: Dillie, Chloe, and Jason.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; infant twin daughters, Patricia and Nancy; a younger sister, Suzanne, in childhood; siblings and their spouses: Irma (Irving) Rosenman, Ed (Audrey) Schulz, Don (Dorothy) Schulz, and Lloyd (Agnes) Schulz; a brother-in-law, Clyde (Margaret) Gabbert; a sister-in-law, Louise Reetz; close family friend, Annelle Clark; and many other relatives and friends, including special fur-kids Desi, Pepper, Boots, and Queenie.

One who was our security in our youth and beyond is gone now, leaving an empty, quiet place within us that mourns. What is left is our memory of her kind and generous spirit, ever persevering through the ups and downs of life. She watched us come into being, dream, live and grow. In her memory was carried the history of our lives. We will forever be grateful for all she was and did for us. We will miss you, Mom, and your ever present beautiful smile.

We would like to thank those staff members at Bella Vista who treated our mother with kindness and respect the past two years. We're especially grateful to the angels from Heartland Hospice who were so helpful, gentle and respectful in caring for Mom. The work you do is beyond measure, as is our appreciation.

There will be a private memorial gathering at a later date. Inurnment will be at Lake View Memorial Park where she will again be next to our dad.

Please share online condolences at www.konrad-behlman.com.