Elizabeth "Betty" Kotwicki

Elizabeth "Betty" (Klein) Kotwicki passed away on Friday, November 27, 2015 following a long illness. She was born in Oakes, North Dakota on April 16, 1939 to the late Albert F. Klein and Frances E. (Long) Klein. She grew up in Oakes where she gained her love of music, had many opportunities to be involved in the community and received her High School Diploma.

In 1957 she attended Vennard College in University Park, Iowa where she received her Bachelor of Sacred Music Degree with a Major in Voice and a Minor in Piano.
While attending Vennard, she felt a call from God to Christian service as a Medical Missionary. While not exactly achieving that goal, she did marry a pastor, Raymond Kotwicki, on June 3, 1961 and had a child who became a medical doctor; thus, her goal was achieved. She didn't earn a professional degree in ministry, but she was an assistant to her husband in all his activities. She loved to lead the children's and adult church choirs, played piano for worship, led Bible studies, delivered meals on wheels and was a member of the United Methodist Women where she was awarded special recognition for her leadership in that group. She was a member of PEO - Chapter BS and First United Methodist Church - Green Bay, WI. She taught piano lessons to countless children and adults alike. She was the world's great hostess and was known by many for her wonderful cooking and hospitality. She was a loving wife and mother and devoted to her grandchilden. She was very proud of her family always cheered them on. She was the ultimate example of a fighter as, although having many health issues, she kept a positive, faith-filled attitude and fought back. She was a classy, compassionate woman and made the lives of all she met a little brighter.

She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Rev. Raymond Kotwicki; her children: Jane (Steve) Kresin of Green Bay, WI, Kathy (Keith) Coroneos of Suamico, WI and Dr. Raymond (Todd Pouwels) Kotwicki of Atlanta, GA; her grandchildren, Jonathan Kresin and Hannah Coroneos; her brothers, Richard (Lois) Klein of Tucson, AZ and Jim (Patty) Klein of Placentia, CA; special friend she considered a sister, Rosemary Becker; nephews, nieces, in-laws and many dear friends.

Friends and relatives may call at the NEWCOMER FUNERAL HOME, (340 S. Monroe Avenue, Green Bay) on Tuesday, December 1, 2015 from 4 to 7 PM. Visiting hours will continue, Wednesday, December 2, 2015 from 10 to 11 AM at FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH (501 Howe St., Green Bay). A funeral service will follow at 11 AM with Pastor David Kalas officiating. Interment will be in Nicolet Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorials directed to First United Methodist Church or to Rawhide Boys Ranch are appreciated.