Obituaries

Betty Jane (Connelly) Burgenske, age 98, passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side on Thursday, October 12, 2023. She was our Mom, Grandma, Great Grandma, and a very kind and loving lady. She was born on March 15, 1925, in Madison, Wisconsin. She was the adopted daughter of Clarence and Teresa (nee Ring) Connelly. She married the love of her life, Russel Burgenske, on June 25, 1943. They shared 73 years together before Russel passed away in 2016.

Throughout Betty's life she enjoyed gardening, fishing, Polka music, weekly gatherings with her lady’s card club, "The 8 O’clock Callers," and spending time with family. She absolutely loved playing Bingo! Betty got the nickname "Bingo Betty" for her enthusiasm and love for the game. Betty and Russel enjoyed fishing trips to the Northwoods and spending winters in Florida, where they made many lifelong friends. She was a faithful member of St. James Lutheran Church in Verona until her health declined.

Betty is survived by her children; Doug (Linda) Burgenske, Joan (Mark) Emerson, Dale (Barbara) Burgenske, and Mary (Doug) Way, along with several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, a sister Gloria Mary Stafseth, an adopted sister Annabell Feck, a niece Teresa Brand, countless friends, and her parents.

The family would like to send special thanks to the staff at Ingleside Communities and Agrace for the kind and loving care given to Betty in her final days.

Private graveside services will be held at a later date.

"Losing a mother is one of the deepest sorrows a heart can know. But her goodness, her caring, and her wisdom live on like a legacy of love that will always be with you. May that love surround you now and bring you peace. Mothers hold their children's hands for a while, but their hearts forever."

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

Verona Chapel

220 Enterprise Drive

608-845-6625