Bette J Nelch-Shofner

She was born on August 17, 1922 in Lansing, Michigan, the daughter of the late Edward M. and Johanna (Straights) Adams. She married Robert E. Nelch and he preceded her in death. She later married Maurice W. Shofner and he also preceded her in death.

Bette had over 33 years of state government service, mostly with the Illinois Department of Transportation. She was a member of Third Presbyterian Church. She loved and enjoyed being with her family and friends. She was wonderful at making and creating gifts for all occasions. She loved Christmas the most! She enjoyed Sunday School classes at Third Presbyterian Church. She was a strong, loving, and fun lady to have in your life. She loved her home and took pride in taking care of everything in it. She enjoyed having people around her. She loved to go out to eat, dance, sing, and go shopping just to be “on the go”! Her family and friends will miss her very much, especially her daughter, grandson, and granddaughters—WE WILL MISS YOU!!!

She is survived by her daughter Deborah Jo (husband Dow) Grider of Sherman, IL, a grandson Robert Shem (wife Amanda) Nelch of Northport, FL, 2 granddaughters Jamie Lee (husband Anthony Kirk and Corie Marie Grider, both of Springfield, a great-grandson Colton Lee Nelch of Northport, FL a great-granddaughter Averie Ray Kirk of Springfield, and a brother Robert L. (wife JoAnn) Adams of Naples, FL. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Besides her parents and both husbands, she was preceded in death by 2 sons Robert E. Nelch, Jr. and Richard L. Nelch, 2 sisters Dorothy M. Garfat and Mary Jane Curnutt, and a brother John E. Adams.

Services are under the direction of Bisch and Son Funeral Home, 505 E. Allen, Springfield, where visitation till be held on Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2011 from 9:30 am until time of the funeral service at 10:30 am, with Rev. Brent Mitchell officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery, Springfield.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society (for skin cancers) or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Please visit the online obituary at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.