Betty Madeline Oswald (Rathke)

Betty Madeline Oswald (Rathke), 88, was taken home by her angels on Tuesday, April 7, 2015. Betty was the only child born to Rose and Edwin Rathke on October 10, 1926. Betty lived in Bay City all her life, but was a world traveler, having visited Australia, Hawaii, Europe, Panama Canal, Costa Rica, England and Ireland, Scotland, Wales and Alaska. Betty loved traveling, but home and family were most important to her. She married her one and only true love, Marwood Oswald, on February 12, 1946 and they shared 22 wonderful years together working on the family farm until his death in November 1968. Betty is survived by her twins, James Oswald and Jan Rau (Alan). Betty's memory is also cherished by her sister-in-law, Delores Appold (Pat) and multiple nieces and nephews. Betty remained active after her husband's passing by raising her two children and working various jobs such as a hairdresser, insurance sales person, office manager, and retiring at 76 from H & R Block. Betty's work places included Wieland Furniture, Ackerman Brothers, and Tripinisee in Saginaw. Betty believed in community service. Betty began her community service by becoming president of Brissette School PTA. Betty continued volunteering as Treasurer for the St. Patrick's Day Parade Association. Betty also was a member of and held offices in the Bay City Fireworks Festival, Fourth of July Parade Committee, River of Time, and American Business Women Bay City Chapter. Betty managed to make time for her love of reading and crocheting. Best of all was Betty's lifelong membership at Trinity Ev. Lutheran Church where she raised her family to be caring, responsible Christians. Special thanks to Dr. Chavali and staff for the wonderful personal care given to Betty for her CHF treatment and to Joy from the Bay County Division on Aging. Funeral and Committal Services will take place Friday, April 10, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Gephart Funeral Home, Inc. Officiating will be Rev. Richard D. Starr with private burial in Floral Gardens Cemetery. The family will be present at the funeral home on Thursday from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. and on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider donation to Trinity Ev. Lutheran Church. www.gephartfuneralhome.com .