Betty Jean Wolgast

Betty Jean Wolgast, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Warren, Michigan, on August 28, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on October 6, 1930, in California Corners Township, Michigan, Betty embodied warmth, kindness, and an adventurous spirit throughout her life.

Primarily a devoted homemaker, Betty also shared her artistic talents and vibrant personality as a part-time beautician. Her education included graduation from both high school and beauty school, which equipped her with skills that matched her vivacious nature. Known for her light-hearted teasing, Betty spread laughter wherever she went, forging connections with everyone she met, whether they were friends or strangers alike.

As a mother, she treasured her role and embraced family life with a zest that was infectious. She loved to play with her children and grandchildren, often employing her favorite prank of silly string to elicit giggles and smiles. Betty's approach to homemaking was characterized by her belief that a clean house was a misspent life, highlighting her priority of creating joyful memories over mundane chores. She was often described as warm, loving, funny, and kind—the kind of person who would lift your spirits with her positivity.

Betty had an adventurous heart. She loved to travel, visiting loved ones and embarking on family trips to fun and interesting destinations. Her artistic flair was evident in her painting; she created beautiful landscapes that grace homes across the country, leaving a legacy of her creativity. She took great pride in the success of her children and anyone who joined her family, supporting her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren with unwavering love.

Her family remembers her as "Grandma the Great," a title that signifies the extraordinary role she played in their lives. She is survived by her children: Kay Gardiner, Ken (Patty) Wolgast, Karen Kern, Kimberly (Jerry) Kreft, and Kevin (Betty) Wolgast. In addition to her children, Betty's legacy continues through her 15 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 10 great-great-grandchildren—57 descendants in total across five generations that she profoundly impacted.

Betty was preceded in death by her loving husband, Frederick "Bud" Wolgast, and her cherished daughter, Krystal "Kris" Wolgast. She also mourned the loss of her sons-in-law, John Gardiner and Howard Kern.

Her spirit will be honored during visitation services at Wysocki & Wilk Funeral Home, located at 29440 Ryan Road, Warren, MI 48092. The visitation will take place on September 1, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on September 2, 2025, from 10:00 AM until the funeral service begins at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow the service at White Chapel Memorial Park Cemetery in Troy, Michigan.

Betty's life was a beautiful journey marked by love, laughter, and a deep commitment to her family. She touched the hearts of many, and her joyful spirit will live on through her descendants and the countless lives she enriched.

Donations in Betty's memory may be sent to either the American Cancer Society or to the Special Olympics of Michigan.

Please share a memory, thought, or prayer with the family here on Betty's online guestbook.