Bette Lee Gleich

Bette was born in Springfield, Illinois on July 23, 1921, the sister of three older brothers: Ron, Jack, and Bob Meredith, all of whom proceeded her in death.

She married Jack L. Gleich in 1941 in Kewanee, Illinois and enjoyed 67 years with him until his death in 2008. They raised four sons, Jim (and Susie) of Chillicothe, Jack (and Nancy) of Princeville, Ron and Bill of Enterprise, Oregon. They loved and cherished their eight grandchildren, fourteen great grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter.

Jack and Bette spent their early lives wherever Jack’s Navy assignments took him and, after the war, in and around Kewanee. In 1956, they purchased the locker plant in Chillicothe, Illinois. They would call Chillicothe home for the rest of their lives.

Bette lived for her family and friends. She was an active supporter and fan of all their activities, and rarely missed a game or school event, even while working daily at the locker plant or helping out at her son Bill’s restaurant. She and Jack took up golf while in their forties when they joined Arrowhead Country Club, making many lasting friendships. She had a passion for the White Sox and oldies music that lasted a lifetime.

Always a practicing Christian, Bette and Jack were instrumental in founding St. Francis Episcopal church in Chillicothe (currently located in Lake of the Woods.)

Bette will be remembered as a role model for motherhood, matriarchy, her sense of humor, her good-naturedness, and most of all her smile.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Private interment services will be at graveside in Kewanee. Davison-Fulton Anderson Chapel in Chillicothe is in charge of arrangements.

Please send memorials to St Francis Episcopal Church and leave remembrances at www.DavisonFultonAndersonChapel.com

Finally, the family wishes to sincerely thank all the staff at St. Joseph Nursing Home for their considerate and compassionate care.