Betty Thiel

Betty Jane Bunkelman Thiel, the lady known for her lovely smile, passed away at 3:38 p.m.Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2007, at Ollie Steele Burden Nursing Home in Baton Rouge. She was 85, born inSeymour, Wis., on June 9, 1921. After finishing high school in Seymour, she entered nursing training at Bellin Memorial School of Nursing inGreen Bay, Wis.AfterPearl Harbor, she volunteered for service in the Army Air Forces. She became a flight nurse, having served in the South Pacific flying to various islands picking up military patients. After the end of World War II, Lt. Bunkelman left the service and returned to Wisconsinand continued nursing. She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Arthur Thiel, and their three children, Sally and husband Joe of North Carolina, Bill and wife Fay of Michigan, and Jim and wife Tonya of Oregon. She is also survived by her sister, Virgie Demske of Texas; seven grandchildren and a great-granddaughter. Betty moved with her family to Baton Rougein 1959. The three young children wanted their mother to be at home rather than return to nursing, enabling her to become active in the church, schools and community. The family joinedBroadmoorMethodistChurchand Betty held office in United Methodist Women and Church Women United. She delivered Meals on Wheels for many years and served in a number of community activities. Betty also became well known for her great cooking. All of her children shared this great love with her. A private graveside service will be held atPortHudsonNationalCemetery, Zachary. Memorial service atBroadmoorMethodistChurchat 11 a.m.Saturday, Jan. 27. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent toBroadmoorMethodistChurch, 10230 Mollylea Drive, Baton Rouge, LA70815, Hospice of Baton Rouge, 9063 Siegen Lane, Suite A,Baton Rouge, LA70810or to a charity of choice.