Elizabeth Strauss

Elizabeth Jane Strauss, February 16, 1920 - January 21, 2011, died peacefully at home with her son by her side following a short illness. Betty lived for nearly 91 wonderful years, a charming, elegant, beautiful and generous wife, mother, sister, grandmother and mother-in-law. Betty had many lifelong friends. The "Betty Bunch" of which she was a founding member 75 years ago, a group of high school friends who shared the same name and many good times together. Betty loved the theater and before her marriage, studied at the Pasadena Playhouse. She acted locally with the Ridgedale Players for many years with her husband of 51 years, Charles, who predeceased her in 1992. She was a devoted member of the National Shrine of the Little Flower Catholic Church for many years, and taught catechism to developmentally impaired children. She and Chuck traveled all over Europe, Japan, Central America and the Caribbean. Betty was always beautifully dressed, and loved parties and fun. She was a lifelong reader, who liked to discuss politics and current events. Her curiosity and spirit of adventure was lifelong. She is survived by her children, Charles Elizabeth, Mary, Susan William Rechlin and Paul Gloria; her grandchildren, Lisa Ken Veenstra and Charlie Millerwise; four great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. The visitation will be Sunday 4-8 p.m. and Monday 2-8 p.m. with a 7 p.m. Rosary on Monday at the Wm. Sullivan & Son Funeral Home, 705 W. Eleven Mile Road 4 blocks E. of Woodward, Royal Oak. Mrs. Strauss will lie in state Tuesday 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass 10 a.m. at the National Shrine of the Little Flower in Royal Oak. A private burial will take place at Lakeville Cemetery in Addison Township. Memorials to St. Aloysius Community Center in Detroit appreciated. Share your memories at www.sullivanfuneraldirectors.com.