Betty Jane Voves

Betty Jane Voves, born on November 24, 1924, in Chaseburg, WI, passed away peacefully at the age of one hundred on April 4, 2025, at Bethany St. Joseph Care Center in La Crosse, WI. She was the youngest of the eight children of Bernard and Isabelle (Geary) Veglahn. Betty's life was marked by her dedication to her family, a deep sense of patriotism and a legacy of hard work and kind-heartedness.

On June 25, 1949, Betty married Robert F. Voves in La Crosse, WI. Their union was blessed with three children and many happy years until Robert's passing on November 10, 1999. Betty worked at Auto-Lite as well as several local restaurants, including Schmidty’s Bar & Restaurant, as a cook. She was a proud member of both the American Legion and the V.F.W. in La Crosse, where she actively volunteered, particularly for fish fries, selling poppies, and placing flags on veterans’ graves.

Betty cherished her family, and she found great fulfillment as a caregiver for her grandchildren and her elderly mother. She loved socializing with friends and neighbors, and enjoyed gardening and cooking, as well as fishing and hunting. Her nurturing spirit and dedication will be warmly remembered.

Betty is survived by one daughter, Rita Reed of La Crosse, and two sons, Dudley (Jane) Voves of La Crescent and Robert (Susan) Voves of La Crosse. Her legacy continues through her eight grandchildren: Sidney Canady, Stacy (Antron Hemingway) Canady, Derek (Christa) Canady, Lynsey Reed, Shawn Helgerson, Gregory Voves, Jason Voves, and Jared (Gina) Voves. She is also held dear by her great-grandchildren: Matthew Boswell, Courtland Canady, Parker Kadera, Devonte Canady, Carter Canady, Maren Canady, Kianna Reed, Deacon Helgerson, Jackson Voves, Jameson Voves, and Londynn Major.

In addition to her husband Robert, Betty was preceded in death by her four brothers: Burton Veglahn, Ervin Veglahn, Leroy Veglahn, and Arnold Veglahn; and three sisters: Louella Stockmeyer, Vernabelle Longway, and Alice Strasser.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the dedicated nurses and staff at Bethany St. Joseph Care Center for their compassionate care. A private service will be held at Mormon Coulee Memorial Park Cemetery, rural La Crosse.

To Those Whom I Love & Those Who Love Me

When I am gone, release me, let me go.

I have so many things to see and do,

You mustn't tie yourself to me with too many tears,

But be thankful we had so many good years.

I gave you my love, and you can only guess

How much you've given me in happiness.

I thank you for the love that you have shown,

But now it is time I traveled on alone.

So grieve for me a while, if grieve you must,

Then let your grief be comforted by trust.

It is only for a while that we must part,

So treasure the memories within your heart.

I won't be far away for life goes on.

And if you need me, call and I will come.

Though you can't see or touch me, I will be near.

And if you listen with your heart, you'll hear,

All my love around you soft and clear.

And then, when you come this way alone,

I'll greet you with a smile and a 'Welcome Home'.