Betty E. Brandt

Surrounded by loved ones, Betty Elaine Brandt (née Buckner) passed away on April 19, 2023, at the age of 85. 

Anyone who knew Betty or even a stranger could listen as stories were shared, and quickly realize that Betty would do anything to take care of her family, ensuring they had opportunities that she never had. Growing up in the small, rural community of Elton Wisconsin, Betty rarely left the farm or participated in the greater community so she was adamant her six children would experience much of what life offered. Betty worked too many hours and made too many sacrifices so her children could play a musical instrument, participate in theater or sports, or enjoy a trip to a ski hill or even experience the culture of another country.  

Betty always insisted her family demonstrate a strong work ethic, treat everyone with respect and to try their best at whatever they did.  

Betty was a champion of the underdog and proudly participated in her first protest in her early 80's, maneuvering her wheelchair amongst the crowd. 

Betty was always quick with a hug, advice to see you through a problem, a homemade meal, or a joke she'd heard at work.

Betty loved her nine grandchildren and created the "perfect Gramma house" complete with toys, activities, adventures and lots of favorite snacks and meals in front of the TV, or a song and story with a snuggle at bedtime. 

Although Betty was always busy with her work, she made sure she attended plays, concerts, sporting events and anything else that came up, so she could support her kids and grandkids and show her love. 

Betty also thought warmly of her kids’ friends, and her sisters-in-law as well as nieces and nephews. She worried about everyone to the same degree and always saw the best in them. She had a way of overlooking everyone’s shortcomings as she knew she had her own. 

Betty had enough love and strong opinions to go around. She sought no recognition nor expected anything in return. 

Betty was preceded in death by her husbands, Guy Watson and Gary Brandt, and her parents, Eneas and Mary Buckner.  She is survived by her children, Penny Watson, Cindy Watson, Timothy Brandt, Amy (Mark) Piszczek, Sally (David) LaCroix and Justin (Stacy) Brandt; her sister, Barbara Buckner; her grandchildren: Kate (Taylor) Beach, Emily Piszczek, Lilla Brandt, Alex Brandt, Molly Piszczek, Dante LaCroix, Dominic Brandt, Amelia Brandt, and Trevor Brandt.

The family would like to thank Lakeland and Compassus Hospice for their generous and tender care of our mother.