Dr. George Bettman

Dr. George L. Bettman died peacefully at his home in East Lansing, MI on Friday May 6, 2016. George was the son of Irma Jane Bettman and a lifelong resident of the Lansing area where he practiced Dentistry. Following his military discharge from the Army Air Corps in 1945, George began his studies in Science at Michigan State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1948. He then went on to study Dentistry at The University of Michigan, obtaining his DDS degree in 1952. During his time at U of M, he married Rosemary (Lawless) Bettman on February 4, 1950 in Portland, MI.

Upon graduation he opened his dental practice in Lansing where he practiced for 50 years. George was a member of the American Dental Association, a Fellow of the International College of Dentists and the Central District Dental Society. He was also an officer and a past president of the Canadian American Medical Dental Association.

George was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Lansing, St. Thomas Aquinas School Board, Lansing Catholic Central School Board, Knights of Columbus and the SAE fraternity of MSU.

George was not only an exceptionally talented and respected dentist, he was also an avid sports enthusiast. He loved to spend time on the water and the ski hills. He was also an excellent golfer, continuing to play 3 to 4 times a week until his death. It was a disappointing day on the course when he did not shoot his age. He was a member of Pelican Nest Country Club in Bonita Springs, FL and a member of Walnut Hills Country Club for 56 years.

George was a committed husband and father who led his family through his integrity, unselfish devotion and work ethic. He is survived by Rosemary, his loving wife of 66 years, his seven children Mary Jane Bettman, Betty (Randy) Hackney, Barbara (David) Chase, Robert Bettman, Janet Shafer, William (Suzanne) Bettman and Joanie (Eric) Brogan along with 21 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Visitation and Rosary will be held on Monday May 9th, 6 pm to 8 pm at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, 1730 East Grand River Ave., East Lansing, MI. The Mass of the Christian Burial will be held at 1 pm on Tuesday May 10th at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church in East Lansing, MI with an hour of visitation immediately preceding the Mass.

In Lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Thomas Aquinas School, 915 Alton Rd. East Lansing, MI 48823.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.greastlansing.com.