Anna Marie Betz

December 2, 1929 – March 29, 2026

Anna Marie (Sailer) Betz, lovingly known as Ann, passed away peacefully on Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026, at the age of 96. She lived a full and remarkable life as a devoted business partner, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Ann was born on December 2, 1929, in Monroe, Michigan, to George and Hildagard Sailer. She was united in marriage to Carl J. Betz, with whom she shared 58 wonderful years until his passing in 2007.

She is survived by her five children: Paul (Randi) Betz, Christine (Gary) Hartman, Daniel Betz, James (Cindy) Betz, and Brenda (Mike) Kelly. Ann was a proud grandmother to ten grandchildren: Jeff (Natasha) Hartman, Brian (Angela) Hartman, Kimberly Hartman, Bradley (Erin) Betz, Barrett (Rachael) Betz, Jessica (Chase) Betz, Rachael (David) Navarre, Michael Betz, Griffin Kelly, and Tyler Kelly. She was also blessed with eight great grandchildren: Jacob Betz, John Betz, Parker Betz, Riley Betz, Alexandra Hartman, William Hartman, Arden Navarre, and Oliver Navarre.

Ann received her education at St. Mary’s Academy in Monroe, Michigan; Mount St. Scholastica (Saint Benedict’s) in Atchison, Kansas; Mary Manse College in Toledo; and the University of Toledo.

In 1950, Ann and Carl co-founded Betco Corporation. From the very beginning, Ann played an integral role in the company’s success, skillfully balancing administrative responsibilities while raising five children. She accompanied Carl to numerous business conventions.

Ann was also an accomplished athlete whose competitive spirit stayed with her throughout her life. In high school, she earned numerous badminton titles, and later became an avid and highly skilled golfer, winning multiple club championships at Inverness Country Club, the Island Club at Marco Island, and Fiddler’s Creek.

Beyond golf, Ann found great joy in fishing, from catching perch and pickerel on Lake Erie to exploring the backwaters of the Everglades and fishing for snook from her dock on the Isles of Capri.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Mary Callan for her years of friendship, care, and companionship.

A private family Mass will be held celebrating Ann’s life.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ann’s memory may be made to her favorite charity, the International Crane Foundation, P.O. Box 447, Baraboo, WI 53913, or online at www.savingcranes.org.