Betty J. Gross

Betty J. Gross passed away January 18, 2022, after a long and wonderful life.

She was born in Detroit, Mich. on March 15, 1928 to Hugh and Agnes McLaren who had recently immigrated from Scotland. Her Scottish heritage was a source of happiness throughout her life. She grew up in Detroit, in her early years, above the Scottish bakery owned by her father, often working there with her family and friends. The bakery became a gathering place for the extended Scottish community leading to lifelong relationships. She graduated from Cooley High School then attended Albion College. At Albion she met her future husband Charles E. Gross, whom she married shortly after graduation in 1950. Their marriage lasted over 70 years until November 27, 2020 when he predeceased her.

She started a career as an elementary school teacher, but this was interrupted by the arrival of her children and her husband’s entry into the navy during the Korean War. The family moved to Adrian in 1961 and she soon found herself busy with raising a family and being an active member of the community. She served the community through the program Healthy Moms Happy Babies, her sorority KKE, her church, and was a member of the board of directors of the Stubnitz Foundation. Her bridge club, book club, Albion potluck group and many dinners with friends at the Lenawee County Club enhanced a robust social life. A true family matriarch, she established with her sister the family cottage at Sand Lake, known affectionately as the OSYC. Her dignity, sense of humor and acceptance established a standard for the family and guests that will be honored by future generations.

In her later years she enjoyed winters on Singer Island, Fla., where her family enjoyed many visits. Her travels led her to many parts of the world and most of the U.S. Her legacy includes being a friend and example to many, a love of her family and community. Betty maintained a keen sense of humor and quiet dignity throughout her life. In spite of the recent decline in her health she remained extremely interested in both events of the world, her family and friends. A good read was enough to make her look forward to another day. A special thank you is owed to Dallas Walter, Lisa Riley, Hospice of Lenawee and her numerous care givers. Each treated her with love and compassion.

Betty was most proud of her family and her marriage of 70 years. She is survived by her sons, Charles H. (Margaret) of Tecumseh, Douglas (Sabrina) of Ann Arbor, and daughter, Nancy Eggenberger (John) of Canton; her nine grandchildren, Max, Bob, William, Natalie, Audrey, Lily, Maricatharine, Olivia and Brian; and great-grandson, Edison. She is also survived by her sister, Elinor Upjohn and many nieces and nephews with whom she maintained a close relationship through the family cottage. She was predeceased by her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, John and Delores Gross, and her brother-in-law, James Upjohn.

Following Betty’s wishes, cremation will take place. A memorial service honoring the lives of both Betty and Charles Gross will be held on Saturday, Feb. 26, at 12 p.m. at Wagley Funeral Home in Adrian. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. The family has requested that all who attend be fully vaccinated and be mindful of covid precautions.

Memorial contributions in Betty’s name may be made to the Lenawee Community Foundation Fund for Hidden Lake Gardens to support the Canopy Walk. Online condolences and memories may be shared at wagleyfuneralhomes.com.