Betty Joan(n) Garlisch
Betty Joan(n) Garlisch, 88, of Forest City, passed away Monday, April 13 at 3:25 a.m.. at her home. She was born October 21, 1931 in Kilbourne the daughter of Frank and Eva Nelch Whiteley. She married Albert F. Garlisch on October 22, 1950 in Manito and he preceded her in death on September 21, 1995. She is survived by five children Rosalyn K. (Charles) Martin of Bartonville, Michael A. (Sheila) Garlisch of Davenport, Iowa, Deanna S. Brust of Manito, Robert L. (Joy) Garlisch of Forest City, and Jeanne (Doug) Mitchell of Tampico. Joan(n) has ten grandchildren Christopher Martin, Stefanie (Randy) Westerdahl, Heather (Fred) Williams, Jared (Molly) Garlisch, Beth (Matt) Keegan, Jenna (Sara) Garlisch, Whitney (Brandon) Mitchell- Dewitte, Matt (Hannah) Garlisch, Brooke (Troy) Guidotti and Allie Jo Garlisch. Joan(n) has sixteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren; one sister Janet Roper of Havana and several nieces and nephews. Joan(n) was a farmer’s wife and homemaker. She was very patriotic and showed it by wearing red, white, and blue. She loved to write and send cards. You knew you were special if you received one from her. She was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and the Tabitha Society of Church. She loved her God. Since her stroke five years ago that took her speech and writing ability away, she was still able to sing and would sing every song she knew. The family is very grateful to all that cared for their mother especially great granddaughter Jessica Williams and Junior caregiver, great granddaughter Cheyanne Lillie that lived with her; granddaughter Heather Williams, Kym, Barb, Colleen, Cierra and Mary. They all took great care of “Granny” and she loved them all dearly. A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. Private graveside services will be held on Wednesday, April 15 at 11:00 a.m. at Meadow Lawn Cemetery Manito. Rev. James T. Batchelor will officiate. Memorials can be made to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church or Emanuel’s Warehouse both in Manito. To leave an online condolence go to www.hurleyfh.com. Maas-Hurley Funeral Home Manito assisted the family with arrangements.