Betty Jane Burge

Betty Burge passed away April 26, 2023, in her apartment at Hampton Manor in Clinton Township, Michigan. She was born July 20, 1929 in Detroit, Michigan to Walter and Mary Arseneau Burge. She was predeceased by her parents and her older half-brother Vern. She is survived by her younger sister Anita (Pat) Wise, many nephews and nieces and grand nephews and grand nieces.

Betty was so important to so many people that it’s impossible to post an adequate death notice. She was a loving daughter, sister, aunt, grandaunt, cousin, and friend. To all of the friends of her nephews and nieces, she was simply “Aunt Betty.”

Betty’s family describes her as “…one of the best people we have ever known. She was incredibly generous with everything – money, possessions, time, and attention. There was nothing she wouldn’t do for, or give to, those she loved.”

Betty lived with her parents until both of them passed away. She supported her parents from the age of 18. She never married or had children.

Betty’s nephew Dennis recalled, “When I was a child, Aunt Betty would go out with her good friends, Martha Johnson and Joanne Nowicki, every Friday night. If I was staying at my grandparents’ house, Aunt Betty would ask me to join her and her friends in whatever they were doing that evening. I never felt like I was imposing or intruding on their evening. I didn’t realize how generous that was until I became an adult.”

Betty had numerous jobs early in her life, before finding her vocation, as a school teacher for 29 years at Carsten’s Elementary School and Rich Primary School. She taught first grade for most of her career, which she loved. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education (1965) and Master of Science in Education (1967) from Wayne State University.

About 60 years ago, Betty’s best friend, Jane Ochalek, introduced her to a group of friends that traveled and celebrated together, and eventually called themselves the Turkeys. Long after Jane and other Turkeys have passed away, the group of friends endures. Fellow Turkey Liz O’Rourke visited Aunt Betty often, when Aunt Betty was no longer able to attend Turkey events.

Betty’s family is grateful to Hampton Manor staff and Careline Hospice staff for the wonderful care that they provided near the end of Betty’s life. The staff at Hampton Manor referred to her as “Ready Betty,” because she was eager to participate in any activity that was offered in the facility.

Betty’s faithful companion, Mia (the cat) was at her side or on her chest until the end.

A visitation for Betty will be held Monday, May 8, 2023 from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Kaul Funeral Home, 28433 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores, Michigan 48081.

Betty's funeral service will occur Tuesday, May 9, 2023, beginning with a gathering 9:00 AM until time of service at 10:00 AM, at the funeral home.

Betty will be laid to rest in White Chapel Cemetery, 621 W Long Lake Rd, Troy, Michigan 48098.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kaul-fh.com.