Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Reinke, 82, of Wanatah, Indiana, passed away Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at Aviva Care in Valparaiso. She was born August 8, 1941, to Lester and Esther (Swope) Martin and graduated from Kouts High School. Betty had a long career working for Dr. James Carmichael as an optometrist’s assistant. For over 30 years she cared for patients in the Valparaiso office and made many friends along the way. She was a longtime member of Salem United Church of Christ in Wanatah. The church and its congregation were an important part of Betty’s life.
On December 2, 1989, she married John W. Reinke, Sr. who preceded her in death in 2002. Survivors include her sister, Dorothy “Dot” Coe (Rick) of Vermont and their daughter, Christine Coe (Damien Laney) of Vermont, brother, Owen Martin (Kathy), sisters-in-law; Betty Lou Martin and Norma Martin, a son, Ron, two grandchildren and many more loving step-children, step-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends. She was also preceded in death by her parents, and brothers; Sam (Ann) Martin, Kenneth Martin and Charley Martin.
Betty was well-known for collecting a menagerie of strawberry-themed mementos over the course of six decades. During her employment, she also collected eyeglasses in a variety of styles and colors to match her outfits. She had a flair for fashion and loved to go shopping. Betty often gifted trinkets, scratch-offs or her famous baked goods to anyone fortunate enough to be nearby. She will be remembered for her generous hospitality and fun-loving spirit. Spending time with her loved ones was a priority for Betty whether it was going for coffee, baking cookies, camping at Jellystone Park, trying her luck at the Blue Chip or simply visiting over the phone. She enjoyed many years of being a “snowbird” in Florida with her brothers and sister. Betty always had a smile on her face and a twinkle in her eye that put people at ease. She was a kind and loving soul and she was loved deeply by her husband, friends, family and neighbors, all of whom she made feel so special.
A visitation will be held Wednesday from 9:30 – 11:00 am at Salem Church, Wanatah with funeral services beginning at 11:00 am and burial to follow at Salem Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Salem Church, Wanatah. Click here to watch the recorded funeral service.
GUESTBOOK
I am deeply saddened to learn of Aunt Betty's passing. I have so many memories with her--girls night overnights, trips to NYC, baking, and working together at my dad's (Dr. James Carmichael) office. She was a key part of his practice and we used to do aerobics after work together! I remember meeting her when I was four years old. She wore red shoes that day! My dad passed away on December 13, 2023. Perhaps they are working together to fit glasses in heaven. My thoughts are with her family. I am grateful to have known her and to have spent so many wonderful times with her. - Jenni Carmichael Clark
