Betty Jean (Goldsmith) Menze was born March 13, 1931, in York, to Mervin and Myrdith (Watson) Goldsmith and passed away Dec. 1, 2022, in Seward, at the age of 91 years, 8 months and 18 days.
Betty attended school in Seward, where she graduated with the Class of 1949. While in high school, she enjoyed being a cheerleader. Betty married Wayne Menze on Feb. 10, 1952, and together they had two sons, Rick and Todd. The couple lived in Seward, where Wayne worked for the Lincoln Telephone and Telegraph Company and Betty worked for Dale E. Lester Fine Jewelry and the Coast to Coast Store. She also spent many memorable years helping her son, Rick, operate the Corner Cafe.
Betty enjoyed many things during her long life, including going to church, embroidering, reading, watching sports, listening to music – especially “Proud Mary” – and, most of all, loving her grandchildren. She also enjoyed flowers, birds and being “Mimi Bette” to the Nantkes family.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Mervin and Myrdith Goldsmith; husband, Wayne Menze; brothers Lee Goldsmith, Dean Goldsmith and Terry Goldsmith; and sisters, Eudece Rollins, Polly Tyrell and Connie Cooley.
Survivors cherishing her memory include her sons, Rick (Sherry) Menze of Seward and Todd Menze of Omaha; grandchildren, Brett Menze of Lincoln and Jill Menze of Brooklyn, New York; brother-in-law, Richard (Linda) Cooley; sister-in-law, Dixie Goldsmith; numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of friends.
There will be a private family inurment and graveside service. Memorial contributions are suggested to Nicodemus Comfort Dog Ministry or to the Capital Humane Society. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.zabkafuneralhome.com.
