Elizabeth "Betty" Naitzke age 74 of Toledo, Ohio passed away on July 25, 2014 in the Ebeid Hospice Residence of Sylvania Ohio. Betty was born to John and Cecilia Zarnoch on September 6, 1939 in Toledo, Ohio. Remembered as energetic and adventurous since childhood, Betty lived a full life as a proud wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
As a young woman Betty is often remembered as a social butterfly, known for her quick wit and ability to entertain anyone who entered her home. Often the life of the party, Betty frequently organized weekly card games with friends, and pool parties for her children and family.
An avid traveler, Betty often joined her husband Charles as he traveled across the U.S. for his work with the phone company. Later in life, Betty shared her love of travel with her children and grandchildren traveling from California to Las Vegas, the Bad Lands to Niagara Falls, Toronto to Florida and countless places in-between. Many of the family's favorite vacations took them on cross-country drives exploring national historical sites.
As a mother and grandmother Betty was a constant source of guidance and support for her family. Betty always put the needs and wishes of her family as a priority, even if it meant sneaking her daughter into the Limo lineup of the Academy Awards during a trip to California. Whether it was supporting a daughter's love of art, a grandson's love of history or film, a granddaughter's love of animals, Betty was extremely proud of each member of her family. Betty was particularly proud of her grandchildren's academic accomplishments, including the upcoming graduation of her grandson from his Ph.D. program. Later in life, Betty enjoyed watching her first great-granddaughter's milestones, learning to walk, talk and develop her adorable personality.
Betty is preceded in death by her parents John and Cecelia Zarnoch, uncle Adam and aunt Theresa Florek, uncle Chester and aunt Jane Zarnoch, uncle Tony and aunt Janette, cousin Walter Krasniewski, cousin Dominic Dumbrowksi, and cousin Stanley Michalak.
Betty is survived by her loving husband Charles, daughters Debbie (Pat) Gagne, Darlene (Joe) Morse, grandchildren Jason (Christina) Pfeifer, Justin (Stephanie) Pfeifer, and Jenna Pfeifer. Betty is also survived by her great-granddaughter Charlotte Pfeifer.
The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of the Toledo Hospital and the Ebeid Hospice Residence at Flower Hospital for the excellent care and compassion extended to both Betty and her family during this extremely difficult time.
A private memorial service will be held at the Northwest Chapel of Newcomer Funeral Home.