Mary Elizabeth Burpeau

Bette was born in Scranton, PA to Fred and Alice Corby on October 3, 1926. The Corby family moved to Williamston, MI when Bette was a young girl. Bette grew up during the depression. She had very fond memories of her childhood even during the difficult economic times that her family had endured during this time. Bette graduated from Michigan State University and was the first college graduate of her family. She was equally proud to be a woman college graduate as this was not a popular option for women at that time. She met her future husband, William (Bill) Burpeau who also graduated from Michigan State University on the G.I. Bill. They married on September 9, 1950, and had five children, ten grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Bette went back to work when her youngest, Carol, was in grade school. She was the Business Manager for the Bayshore School District. Among her responsibilities, she managed financial investments, and her signature was on the school district’s employee’s checks. After living on Long Island, NY for over 40 years. Bette and Bill retired to Melbourne FL. In Melbourne, Bette was active in the Suntree Country Club and enjoyed playing golf, bridge and the club’s social activities. She also loved having her large family visit.

Bette is preceded in death by Bill Burpeau, her parents, Fred and Alice Corby, and her two sisters: Alice Bridger and Patricia (Patt) Brown.

Bette is survived by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Michael Burpeau (Bonnie Parks), Ryan and Lauren Burpeau; Suzanne Russo (Peter), Michael Russo (Michelle), Joanna Russo (Kris Utt), Louis Utt; Barbara Lindsey (Robert), Brendan Lindsey (Melissa), Austin Ledbetter and Brooklyn Lindsey, Matthew Lindsey, Kevin Lindsey (Katie), Eloise, Theo and Kieran Lindsey; Marianne Fraser, Katie Fraser (Stefano de Marzo Sebastiani), Michael and Kelly Fraser; and Carol Burpeau.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10.00 am on Tuesday, February 25th at St. Anthony Church in Fort Lauderdale. Arrangements are made by Fred Hunter’s Funeral Home of Fort Lauderdale.

The family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Catholic Hospice, Inc for their kindness and support.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Michigan State University in memory of Mary Elizabeth Burpeau allocated to Support Our Spartans Emergency Needs Fund and can be mailed to Michigan State University, 535 Chestnut Rd, Room 300, East Lansing, MI 48824. Memorial gifts can also be made online at givingto/msu.edu/gift