Betty Jean Lauderback

Betty Jean Lauderback, 85, North Manchester, formerly of North Liberty and Walkerton area, passed away peacefully in her sleep, immediately following a visit with her loving family and husband of fifty-eight years on Sept. 1, 2020, at Grey Stone Health and Rehab, Fort Wayne. One of five children, Betty was born Jan. 10, 1935, in Union Mills, to Arthur and Lois (Smith) Gemberling.

In 1953 Betty graduated from Union Mills High School. It was nine years later that Betty found and married the love of her life Richard Lauderback. The two were wed on Jan. 13, 1962, and remained united in marriage for fifty-eight wonderful years. During their time together, Betty worked for Howmet Aerospace for fifteen years before retiring in 1985. They also attended Faith Baptist Church, North Manchester, before her health began to decline.

Despite her often-busy schedule, family was Betty’s passion and delight. Being the eldest child, she would often care for her three brothers. Together, they would get into all sort of shenanigans. Surely to bring a smile and sometimes a stern look from their parents faces. Her love for family only grew as time went on. Known as the “strong one” and “the great story teller” to her family, she adored time spent with them. Whether it be on a fishing boat, on the beach, in the garden, strolling through a flea market, going to auctions, decorating cookies, painting a picture with them, or simply holding a great grandchild on her lap, her joy and love for family was evident. They were her life, her legacy.

The loving memory of Betty Jean Lauderback will be forever cherished by her husband, Richard Lauderback, Fort Wayne; daughters, Patty (Mark) Houghton, Bronson, Mich.; Robbie Lauderback, Syracuse; Cindy (Todd) Carroll, South Bend; and Nita (Scott) King, North Liberty; brothers, Glen (Karen) Gemberling, Fla.; and Ronald Gemberling, South Bend; sister, Donna Kalsow, La Porte; thirteen grandchildren; and nineteen great-grandchildren with one on the way. Betty was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Lisa Steinke Lowry; and brother, Robert Gemberling Jr.

Family and friends may call from 2:30-3:30 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 8, at Warvel Park Gazebo, 702 Market Street, North Manchester. A celebration of life service will begin at the conclusion of calling. Pastor Kurt Stout will officiate.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Betty Jean Lauderback, memorial contributions may be made to the Wabash County Animal Shelter, 810 Manchester Ave., Wabash, IN 46992 or the North Manchester Public Library, 405 North Market Street, North Manchester, IN 46962.