Elizabeth Mary Dangreau

It is with both a heavy heart and a smile on my face that I announce the passing of my beloved Elizabeth Mary Dangreau—though most of you knew her as Betty, or simply, Bets. Born in Michigan on August 7, 1935, Bets left an indelible mark on this world in her 89 vibrant years of life. She passed peacefully on August 14, 2024, with that same sweet spirit that we all cherished so deeply.

Bets and I, Bud, were blessed to share 70 wonderful years of marriage. Seventy years of love, laughter, and the occasional debate over whose turn it was to take out the trash. She always won, of course—Bets had a way of getting things done, often with a smile that made you forget why you were resisting in the first place.

Bets was a woman of many talents, but her true masterpiece was her stained glass work. I always said, "Our house is a gallery, and Bets is the artist." She created the most beautiful stained glass pieces that filled our home with light and color—and let's be honest, she also brightened the homes of every friend who was lucky enough to be gifted one of her creations. Those of us blessed to know her know that the joy in her work wasn’t just in the finished pieces but in the love and care she poured into each cut and mosaic. Every piece was like a little reflection of her heart.

As much as Bets loved her art, her real passion was helping others. She found immense joy in volunteering at Emerald Elementary School’s Learning Lab, teaching reading and math to kids who grew to adore her. There was something about her that made people feel at ease, like you could tell her your problems, and she’d listen intently. And of course, she'd probably crack a joke or two just to keep the mood light—that was my Bets.

Her laugh—that’s what I’ll miss most. It was contagious. You couldn’t hear her chuckle without joining in, and boy, did she always find something to laugh about. Whether it was a funny story she overheard from the kids at school or some little inside joke between us, she had a way of making the world a brighter, happier place.

Bets was the love of my life and a devoted wife, mother, and friend. She worked tirelessly to create a home that was welcoming and warm. Her friendly smile greeted everyone who walked through our door, and it’s that same smile I’ll carry with me for the rest of my days.

She is preceded in death by her brother Anton Jr., sister Kathleen Ottrock, and her parents, Anton Sr. and Alice. She leaves behind me—her husband Emil, or as she called me, Bud—and countless cherished friends who will miss her dearly.

A Mass Intention for Bets will be held at Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church in Broomfield, CO, with the date and time to be determined. We’ll also gather for a celebration of her life at a later date—because that’s what Bets would’ve wanted: a celebration, full of laughter, memories, and love.

To everyone who knew and loved her, remember this: she may be gone from our sight, but she will never be gone from our hearts. I can just imagine her looking down on us now, stained glass window in one hand, and a hearty laugh in the other.

Rest easy, my Bets. You lived well, loved well, and laughed even better.

With all my love,

Bud