Elizabeth Jane Rothenberger

Elizabeth Jane Rothenberger was born on April 23, 1931, in Colorado. She married Joseph Paul Rothenberger on June 25, 1949. She lived over 35 years with her son Fred at their Southwest Portland home. She passed away on Wednesday December 11, 2024, at the age of 93.

Elizabeth raised 9 children and she was “Grandma” to over 30 grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was “Aunt Betty” to all of her nieces and nephews.

Elizabeth “Betty” Terry had 5 siblings Elaine Rothenberger, Walter Terry, Leroy Terry, Naomi Holland and Barbara Brooks. Born in Colorado Betty moved to the Willamette Valley where she grew up and attended St. Mary’s Academy and later married Joseph Paul Rothenberger.

While living in Lake Oswego Elizabeth and Joseph raised 9 children together until Joseph’s passing in 1973. Elizabeth remained an amazing provider for her children following the loss of her husband. As a single parent she worked numerous jobs to provide for her children. Elizabeth (known as “Rusty” for her beautiful red hair) worked in a local manufacturing plant, cleaned homes, and served as a cook at local restaurants and schools. She found a way to provide for her family through much sacrifice and determination . She also found time to connect with her local friends and companions through her genuine fondness for bowling. She enjoyed her weekly bowling league that met at the Tigard bowling alley.

Elizabeth’s commitment to family was evident throughout her life. Her desire to help organize the summer family picnic of cousins, aunts and uncles for her children was a long standing tradition. Christmas at Grandma’s was also an annual tradition. Her children, their spouses, grandchildren and great grandchildren met for the holidays at her home. This was a tradition for more than 35 years. It was not uncommon for one of her children or grandchildren to invite a friend to join in the holiday gathering. Anyone who attended one of her Christmas gatherings was always welcomed as family. One of the highlights at these gatherings was enjoying Mom’s delicious fried chicken, deviled eggs and potato salad.

Elizabeth is survived by Elaine (Leonard) Rothenberger, Judy Terry, Steve (Patty)Rothenberger, Connie Rothenberger, Patty Kincaid, Sandy Rothenberger, Mary (Joe) Folsom, Joe Rothenberger, Carol (Don) Brandow and Tom (Rosa) Rothenberger.

She was preceded in death by Iona (William) Cook , Everett Terry, Joseph Paul Rothenberger, Walter Terry, Leroy (Barbara) Terry, Naomi (Leon) Holland, Barbara Brooks and her son Fred Rothenberger.

There will be a Funeral Mass and Celebration of Life for Elizabeth on Thursday January 23, 2025 (11 am), at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Tigard (12645 SW Pacific Hwy, Tigard, OR 97223). There will be a reception to follow at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.