Betty J. Ritschard, age 78 of Monroe, died unexpectedly on Thursday, September 29, 2011 at the Monroe Clinic Hospital.

Betty was born January 15, 1933 in Monroe, the daughter of Albert and Frieda (Trickel) Wuetrich. She graduated from Monroe High School in 1951. Betty married Norman "Hank" Ritschard on May 10, 1952 at St. John's United Church of Christ, Monroe.

They farmed in Monroe Township before moving into Monroe in 1978.

Betty was a member of St. John's United Church of Christ and the Women of the Moose Chapter #599. She loved spending time with her family and friends and enjoyed playing cards.

She is survived by four children, Sally Peters of New Glarus, Bill (Sara) Ritschard, Peggy (Keith) Riese, Tammy (Darris) Henning, all of Monroe; nine grandchildren, Jason Anderson, Justina Peters, Brett (fiancée Shelly Thompson), Tim and Jacob Ritschard, Katie and Taylor Riese, and Trent and Kramer Henning; and a brother, Bob Wuetrich of Monroe. She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband, Hank, on February 7, 2008.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, October 4, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John's United Church of Christ, Monroe, with Rev. Gretchen Sylvester officiating. Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Monroe, followed by a luncheon at the Monroe Moose Lodge. Visitation will be on Monday from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Newcomer Funeral Home, Monroe.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund will be established in Betty's name. To send an expression of sympathy go to www.newcomerfuneralhome.net.