Elizabeth "Betty" Kaminski's Obituary
Mrs. Elizabeth "Betty" Kaminski, a beacon of love and the epitome of The Greatest Generation and a life well-lived, passed away on November 26, 2024, at the age of 94, in Strongsville, after a truly epic life marked by the creation of an unparalleled family of 154 so far. Born on September 21, 1930, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Betty's journey was one of resilience and an unwavering commitment to her family and the values she held dear.
Betty's legacy is a tapestry woven with the threads of her love, care, and the wisdom she imparted to her family. She was the gentle matriarch to a beautiful, sprawling family, including her late husband Bob of 63 years and her ten very accomplished children—Sandra Jardine (George), Marsha Miller (Fred), Robert (Beryl), William, Ronald (Bonnie), David (Terry), MaryBeth Gallagher (Mike), Thomas, Mark (Kim), and James (Mary)—and her adoring 33 grandchildren Jason, Joni, Becky, Kristy, Michelle, Jenna, Patrick, Katie, Annie Shannon, Brandon, Joy, Season, Kit, Ronny, Tracy, Tara, Erin, Carrie, Eli, Seth, Tessa, Ryan, Davey, Tommy, Joey, Robby, Kalie, Matthew, Jamie, Michael, Sarah, Jonathon and 74 great-grandchildren, with the numbers still growing. Sister of the late Godfrey, Joe, Theresa, Dorothy, Madonna and Joy. Betty was the quintessence of a full-time mom and grandma, her most cherished and celebrated roles.
Betty was known for her patient and forgiving heart. She taught values of empathy, faith, and the importance of prayer and God in her family. Betty was a super-hero in her own right—a salt of the earth and a true real person who embodied humility, love, and a competitive spirit. Her youthful soul and empathetic nature were sources of strength and inspiration to all who knew her.
While Betty at times was a ball of nerves and a master of worry, she turned her concerns into a driving force for caring for others. Her nature was about striving to be the best version of oneself. She lived by the creed that one should never harbor ill will, famously quipping, "I don’t get mad, I get even," with a twinkle in her eye that revealed her spirited sense of humor.
Betty was a Grandma who never missed an opportunity to support her grandchildren, whether that meant being the loudest cheerleader at their sporting events or the quiet source of wisdom in times of need. Her love and dedication to her family were her life’s work, and the fruits of her labor are evident in the accomplishments and character of her children and their families.
A Great Depression child her interests and activities were basic and always circled back to the heart of her identity: Family! At 94 years old, Betty was still the life of any gathering, radiating warmth and laughter, and reminding everyone that age is but a number and the spirit is eternal.
Betty’s life was a testament to the power of positive thinking manifesting everything to always be OK and the strength of a loving heart. She embodied the truth of Helen Keller’s words: “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched—they must be felt with the heart.” Betty felt the world with her heart, and in doing so, she made it a more beautiful place for her family and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
As we celebrate the remarkable life of Mrs. Elizabeth "Betty" Kaminski, we are reminded of the joy, love and huge family she brought into our lives. Her spirit, a guiding light, remains with us, encouraging us to live fully, love deeply, and laugh often. Betty's life was a gift to us all, and her memory will continue to inspire and motivate generations to come.
Our special thank you to the staff and administration at the Altenheim Nursing Home for taking care of not only Betty but, her entire family that was in and out visiting for years!
This is not a sad event, we could not have had it any better! Please bring a smile and warm gesture like Betty would to Jardine Funeral Home in Strongsville SUNDAY 5-8pm. A Catholic Funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday at 11am at Betty’s Church, St. John Neumann in Strongsville. PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH. She will be laid to rest next to her husband Bob at Strongsville Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Altenheim for their Holiday Employee Christmas Fund. www.jardinefh.com
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