Elizabeth "Betty" J. Berckman

Elizabeth J. “Betty” Berckman (Cordner), 89, of Sparta, passed away surrounded by family on Sunday, August 4 at Gundersen Health System, La Crosse. 

Betty was born and grew up in Farmers Valley. After her husband passed away in 1967, she raised four wonderful children on her own. She enjoyed sewing, reading, listening to her grandchildren play guitar and piano, and taking road trips. She was blessed to have the special, loving care of her daughter, Betty Jean, for such a long time.

She is survived by four children – daughters, Betty Jean “Chuckie,” Debbie Lakowske (Calvin), Patty Knutson (Glenn), and son, John. She is also survived by many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. She is also survived by two brothers, Bobby and Tommy Cordner; special friend, Julie; and her furry friend, Opal.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, John Berckman; parents Tom and Esther Cordner; sisters Margaret Erickson, Helen Tomlin, and Emma Loeffelholz; brother, Richard; and grandson, Brad Lakowske.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Gundersen Health System, Gundersen’s Palliative Care team, and the staff at the Onalaska Care Center with special thanks to her primary care practitioner, Amber Oshan, at Gundersen Health System in Sparta.

A private family burial will be held at a later date in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Sparta. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to local animal shelters. Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

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