Betty Lemke

BELLINGHAM, WA—Betty Jean Lemke passed away peacefully May 18, 2026 in Bellingham, WA. She was born in Leitchfield, KY leaving behind a legacy of creativity, advocacy, friendship, and love. Betty raised her family of five children in Resthaven in Wilmington, IL, where many cherished summers were spent along the Kankakee River. She took great pride in her family’s business, Lemke’s Plaster Paradise and Ceramics, where she shared her passion for art by teaching oil painting classes. Painting remained one of her greatest joys throughout her life. Betty had a gift for making things grow, whether it was her enormous gardens, her artistic talents, or the friendships she nurtured over the years. She was a writer, an activist, and someone who was never afraid to stand up for what she believed was right. She helped bring attention to the dangerous conditions on Route 102, advocating for improvements that made the road safer for others. Later in life, Betty and her beloved husband, Robert, moved to Prescott, AZ. There, she became a welcoming presence in the community, helping newcomers feel at home by forming a Newcomers Club. In her late fifties, Betty discovered a new passion—tap dancing—and helped form the famous Dancing Grannies, bringing smiles and laughter wherever they performed. Betty and Robert spent their final years in Bellingham. Robert passed away Oct. 20, 2018. While she treasured her many accomplishments and friendships, nothing brought her greater joy than her family, especially her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Betty is survived by her children, Stephanie Bell, David Lemke (Donna), of Mesa, AZ; and Susan (John) Long, of Gulf Shores, AL. She also leaves behind seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her tremendous pride and joy. She is preceded by Robert Lynn and Laurie who had previously passed. Betty is now reunited in Heaven with her loving husband, Robert. Their story also leaves an important lesson for those they loved. In their later years, decisions made by others left them with less control over family relationships than they would have wanted. Betty would encourage everyone to carefully consider their estate plans, powers of attorney, and end-of-life wishes, and to choose trusted individuals who will honor their desire to maintain connections with the people they love most. Though Betty and Robert are gone, their lives remind us that family time is precious and should never be taken for granted. She will be remembered for her artistic spirit, determination, compassion, advocacy for others, and the love she shared with everyone fortunate enough to know her. Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever in our hearts.