Betty J. Ebben

Betty Jane Ebben (Bayer) of Appleton, WI joined her heavenly kingdom on January 25, 2023.  She was born to Frank and Lena (Endres) Bayer on October 14, 1928 in Menasha, WI.  She graduated from St. Mary High School in Menasha with the class of ’46 and went on to work at her local theatre and Bantas for a few years after.  Betty met the love of her life, Martin Ebben shortly thereafter.  They were married in June of 1949 and together, they raised two wonderful children.  

Betty was a spunky woman, never afraid to be honest and upfront about how she felt.  She enjoyed solving crossword puzzles, winning big at the casino, and lovingly feeding the birds that came to her window.  Betty loved to cheer on all of the Wisconsin sports teams, including the Packers, Badgers, Brewers, and Bucks.  She and Martin would often frequent local clubs to dance together and dazzle the crowds.  Above all else, though, Betty was a family woman.  She took so much pride in raising her family with love and seeing her kids and grandkids grow up to be such beautiful people. 

Betty is survived by her two children, Gayle Pierce and Christopher (Margaret) Ebben; her grandchildren, Brandon (Jenna), Kelsey, Tina, and Tana; her newly-born great-grandchild, Julia; her siblings-in-law, Jim Ebben, Don (Dorothy) Ebben, and Lucille Hietpas; as well as many nieces, nephews, other extended relatives, and dear friends. 

A memorial visitation will be held for Betty from 4-6 PM Wednesday, February 1 at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior St, Appleton, WI with a memorial service to follow at 6 PM.  Betty will be laid to rest by her husband at St. Joseph Cemetery in Appleton.  In lieu of flowers, Betty’s family asks that any donations please be made to the St. Thomas More Scholarship Fund or to the charity of your choice. 

Betty’s family would like to thank the caregivers at Thedacare Regional Medical Center and Thedacare At Home Hospice in Appleton as well as to the staff at the Helen House in Kimberly for all their compassion and care they showed to Betty.