Betty Jane Billeb (nee Low), age 81, of Hubertus, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 22, 2025, at Charter Senior Living of Hasmer Lake in Jackson, Wisconsin.
Betty was born on July 7, 1944, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Arvol and Ellen Low (nee Becker). She graduated from Oak Creek High School in 1963. Betty met her future husband, Gregory (Greg) Billeb, through her brother, Leland Low, who worked with Greg at Cuneo Printing Press. The couple married at Mt. Hope Lutheran Church on September 19, 1964. In 1967, Betty and Greg built their forever home of 57 years in Hubertus, Wisconsin.
Betty dedicated herself to raising her three children as a stay-at-home mom until her youngest began school. She then began her professional journey as a Kitchen Aide at Washington High School in the Germantown School District. On August 9, 1990, Betty graduated with high honors from Moraine Park Technical College, earning a diploma as a School Food Service Assistant. Her commitment to the school lunch program continued as she obtained multiple certificates in food service, including the Manager 4 certification from the American School Food Service Association.
Betty was highly respected by her colleagues, school staff, and students. She was commended for her nurturing and caring efforts which extended well beyond the kitchen. Betty was honored as Support Staff Employee of the Year for the 1996-1997 school year. Her career culminated as Head Cook at Kennedy Middle School, where she worked until retiring in August 2006. In recognition of her dedication, the Wisconsin State Senator congratulated Betty on the Distinguished Service Award in 2000, commending her care for students and her enthusiasm for academics and leadership.
Betty cherished her children, grandchildren, and great-grandsons, always sharing her love and pride for them with everyone she met. An exceptional cook and baker, she began a family tradition of making homemade chocolates at Christmas, gifting them to coworkers, friends, and family. This tradition originated with her longstanding family friend, Sheila Baumann, and has since been passed down to her daughters and granddaughters.
Betty also enjoyed traveling with loved ones, including her sister-in-law Arlene Low, dear friend Diann Schaetzel, her husband Greg, and his siblings Brian & Pat Billeb and Gail & Gary Grafwallner, as well as with her children. Betty embarked on countless road trips and adventures across the United States, and cherished her remarkable journey abroad, enjoying an unforgettable trip to Europe.
Betty is survived by her children: Margie (Mike) Burkwald, Mark (Laura) Billeb, and Vince Billeb; grandchildren: Matthew (Angela) Burkwald, Michele Burkwald, Sarah (Dante) Heard, and Eva Billeb (Kenn); and great-grandsons: Colton and Connor Burkwald. She is also survived by her brother Roland (Donna) Low, nieces, nephews, and many other beloved family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Greg; parents, Arvol and Ellen Low; sister, Marjery Ellen Low; brothers, Leland Low and James Low; parents-in-law, Howard and Lucille Billeb; sisters-in-law, Arlene Low and Patricia Billeb; grandson, Mitchell Billeb; and daughter-in-law, Catherine LeRose (Billeb).
A celebration of Betty's life will be held at the Jackson Community Center, N165W20330 Hickory Lane, Jackson, WI 53037, on Saturday, February 21 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Cancer Society and the Alzheimer’s Society are appreciated.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dan Wells, NP, and the wonderful staff at Lily Hospice and Charter Senior Living of Hasmer Lake, especially Casey, Courtney, Bethany, Lauren, and Cherie.