OTTAWA – Elizabeth Marie “Betty” Wannemacher, 90, of Ottawa, passed away at 11:18 a.m., Saturday, November 9, 2024, at her residence. She was born February 5, 1934, in Ottawa to the late Valentine “Wally” and Gertrude (Morman) Schmenk. On January 19, 1957, she married Roman “Romie” Wannemacher, who preceded her in death on October 14, 1998. Betty is survived and forever cherished by two daughters: Brenda (Dave) Warnecke and Barbara (Al) Fortman; six grandchildren: Bryant (Brooke) Warnecke, Chelsea (Corey) Brumbaugh, Devin (Carlton) Kutz, Eric (Jessica) Warnecke, Kristen Fortman, and Nicole (Matthew Green) Fortman; eight greatgrandchildren and very special friend, Dave Frick. She was preceded in death by sisters: Zelma (George) Whitney, Rosemary (Sam) Cartwright and Margaret (Thomas) Betts and in-laws: Justin (Alice) Wannemacher, Carl (Georgianna) Wannemacher, Marie (Dick) Maas, and Jeanette “Dolly” (Vern) Schroeder.
Betty had a true love of God, family, country and her parish. She lived in her beloved home with a view of Sts. Peter & Paul since August, 1959. She cherished every day in Ottawa. Betty retired from Putnam County Clerk of Courts. She was a lifelong member of Sts. Peter & Paul Parish and its Rosary Altar Society. She was one of the founding members of the Sts. Peter & Paul Boosters, a former SPPS School Board member, and a former parish council member. As well as being the parish’s organist for many years, Betty provided music for countless services and weddings.
She was an avid historian and meticulous keeper of all things Sts. Peter & Paul and Ottawa. She loved life in Ottawa and enjoying documenting changes in the church and community. Her positive outlook has been the theme of her daily life and has been enjoyed immensely by all who knew her. Betty was a force of positive energy. Whether she was discussing SPPS history, Ottawa history, playing dolls and games with her great grandchildren, or having lunch with friends, Betty was full of enthusiasm and joy. Generations of us will miss her deeply. Funeral Mass will begin 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Ottawa with Fr. Scott Kramer officiating.
Burial will follow in church cemetery. Visitation will be held 2 to 8 p.m. on Friday, November 15, 2024 and 9 to 10:15 a.m. Saturday, November 16, 2024 at LOVE FUNERAL HOME, Ottawa, Memorial donations may be made to Sts. Peter & Paul School. Condolences may be expressed at www. lovefuneralhome.com
