Betty Joyce Litjens

Betty Litjens left us peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family on Wednesday, September 11, 2024. She was an affectionate, dedicated, hardworking and generous person who consistently put the needs of others above her own. She was born in Pella, WI on July 25, 1937, to the late Rudy and Lenora (Buck) Guetschow. Betty graduated from Oshkosh High School in 1955. In 1959 she was introduced to a Dutch soccer player at a New Year’s Eve party, the love of life, Frits Litjens. From there the adventure began and the couple married on October 14, 1961.

Betty worked at Mercy Medical Center in Oshkosh for 37 years in patient accounts and management. After retirement she worked for Reff, Bavier, Bermingham and Lim for six years. Betty also partnered with her husband running Litjens Construction for over 35 years. 

Betty had a passion for volunteering and clubs for 54 years. Some of the many clubs and things she volunteered for include the Miss Wisconsin and Miss Oshkosh Pageants, Winnebago Apartment Association, Tour Guide for Winnebago Senior Tours through the Oshkosh Senior Center, Voting poll worker, Mercy Gift Shop, Red Hats, 20th Century Club, EAA, Sawdust City Corvettes among many more. 

She also loved to travel and loved sharing her stories with others about her adventures. Betty loved meeting new people and developed an abundance of friendships through her various endeavors... Her personality brought warmth and joy to everyone she encountered, and her passing shall be mourned deeply by everyone that knew and loved her. 

Betty's memory will remain in the hearts of her family and friends and all those that had the honor and privilege to know her. Betty is survived by her loving husband of 62 years, Fred, (Frits) Litjens; children, Lisa Winkler, (husband Greg Spletter), Susan Litjens and Tony Litjens; grandchildren, Alex Winkler, (Jessica), Jack Litjens, (Madelynn) and Abigail Litjens; brother, Dan Guetschow, (Deb); beloved dog, Spooky, who was her constant companion, never leaving her side; granddog, Natalie, who was also a great source of comfort and love to her consistently. 

Passing before her were her parents, Rudy and Lenora Guetschow; brothers, Gary, David and Steve Guetschow. She recently lost her beloved Aunt Shirley Calkins and as they grew up like sisters, this was heartbreaking to her. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic church, 830 S. Westhaven Dr. with Fr. Ben Pribbenow officiating. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:00 am until the time of Mass. A private interment will be held at Lake View Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established.

Betty, you left us beautiful memories and your love is still our guide. Although we cannot see you, you're always by our side. Thank you for loving us and providing us with the inspiration to be good people.