Betty Jean Rutzky

1935-2025

GUILFORD LAKE — Betty Jean Rutzky, 89, passed away on Monday, April 7, 2025, in the comfort of her home. 

Born on June 15, 1935, in Salem, Ohio, Betty was the daughter of the late Ross and Dorothy (Jackson) Bartholow. She graduated from Salem High School in 1953 and married Ernie Rutzky on Oct. 30, 1955. After celebrating 37 years of marriage, Ernie preceded her in death in 1992. In 1962, Betty and Ernie moved to Sebring, where they raised their four children. In addition to being a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and homemaker, Betty worked for Copeland Oaks Crandall Medical Center in housekeeping, retiring after 24 years of service.

Retirement brought a new chapter for Betty as she embraced the tranquility of lake life at Guilford Lake. Her home became a hub of joy and celebration, with Betty and her wonderful sense of humor at the center. She enjoyed hosting many memorable family gatherings, especially on the Fourth of July, which always featured an array of her delicious homemade pies, cobblers, and cookies. Betty also enjoyed tending to her flower gardens, satisfying her sweet tooth with chocolates, and especially spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who affectionately called her “Grandma Betty.” 

Betty leaves to carry on her memory, her children, Ernie (Deb) of Kent, Doug (Laura) of Powell, and Brad of Guilford Lake; five grandchildren, Nathan (Heather Ackerman) Rutzky, Emily Rutzky, Eliott (Alicia) Rutzky, Preston (Kristin) Ewing, and Mitchell Ewing; three great-grandchildren, Elsie Rutzky, and Addison and Violet Ewing; sister, Mary Johnson of Port Charlotte, Fla.; brother, Ross (Pat) Bartholow of Beloit; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. 

In addition to her parents and husband, Betty was preceded in death by her daughter, Becky Ewing; and sisters, Janet Phillis and Carole Charlton.  

Family and friends will be received from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at Stark Memorial Funeral Home, 1014 E. State St., Salem, where a memorial service will follow at 6:30 p.m. Interment will be at a later date at Highland Memorial Park. 

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary “Hugs from Home” program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

To view Betty’s obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

4/12/25