Betty Schaaf's Obituary
Betty Schaaf, age 96, passed away at her home in Muskegon on Tuesday, May 17, 2022. She was born in Chicago, IL on September 3, 1925, to her parents Einar and Lillian. Betty graduated from Northwestern University with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics. In 1945 she married Richard Schaaf (Betty and Rich first became childhood friends at age 8). Betty and Rich walked a straight path, but it was not narrow. They had to have mutual agreement on decisions. They spent many happy years together until he preceded her in death in 1990. Betty valued honesty, truth, and kindness. In the past Betty was a longtime member at Harbor Unitarian Universalist Congregation. Betty took a lot of pride in being a homemaker and raising their four children. Betty was also proud of the house that she and Rich built together in Wheaton, IL. Betty was quite active in her younger years, and she loved to spend time outdoors, whether it was running, playing tennis, snow skiing, spending time on the beach, or just walking through the state parks. After Rich passed away, she still enjoyed keeping her mind active through sudoku, crossword puzzles, and even practicing calculus and algebra. Betty will be lovingly remembered by her four children: Donna, Gaye, Lisa, and Kurt; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Richard Schaaf; and sister, Myrtle. Per Betty’s wishes no service will be taking place, but donations in Betty’s memory can be made out to The Harbor Hospice Foundation. Arrangements by The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 737 E. Apple Ave, Muskegon, MI, 49442. Please sign the family’s online guestbook and share memories at sytsemafh.com
What’s your fondest memory of Betty?
What’s a lesson you learned from Betty?
Share a story where Betty's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Betty you’ll never forget.
How did Betty make you smile?