Elizabeth Lou Van Dreel

If you are reading this, Betty Lou, a very special mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, neighbor, and church member, is rejoicing, in life eternal with her husband, Tom. They can now live the lives they dreamed of having, but never had the chance...

Elizabeth "Betty" Lou (Leininger) Van Dreel was born on September 12th, 1942.

Betty met Thomas Van Dreel when working at the De Pere fairgrounds. He was a racecar driver and 'body man.' They fell in love, married and soon began their family.

Betty was a loving mother to Debbie and Scott, her pride and joy. She always said their birth changed her life for the better, and her children felt that love every day of their lives.

Betty was a wonderful cook and a stay at home mom. She enjoyed taking care of her family and made the best roast beef sandwiches. Her son Scott especially liked Angel food cakes. Betty would always come through and bake one for his birthday. Her husband Tom enjoyed preparing food on the grill and that made Betty happy. While the food was cooking, the family patiently waited in lawn chairs sharing stories while drinking a beer. Later, Scott took over the grilling duties to continue Dad's tradition. Betty also enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. She had a special saying they would race to see who could say it first, "Grandma loves you nonnumbered nonnumbered to infinity and beyond."

Betty was a devoted Catholic who cherished her Bible and the teachings of Jesus Christ. After the passing of her dear husband, Betty chose to devote her time and service to her church family, which gave her life meaning and a sense of purpose. When not at church, Betty enjoyed scrapbooking and traveling, as well as sitting in her chair watching the cardinals and butterflies--a sure sign from heaven that everything was ok.

Even though the last few years took away Betty's memories, her children Debbie (Jerry) and Scott (Barb) choose to live their lives in their parents' light, and the memories they created together.

Celebration of Betty's life is Thursday, January 16th at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church 1305 Lourdes Ave., De Pere. Visitation is from 9am-11am. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00am. Please go to www.ryanfh.com to send online condolences.

Friends are encouraged to bring a picture of themselves with Betty, or a fun written memory for the family to keep. Picture board and a memory box will be available. Thank you.

The family wishes to thank everyone who remembered Mom in their own way, that made her life whole.