The community comes together with heavy hearts to celebrate the remarkable life of Betty Zehner, who, at the age of 93, embarked on her final journey, answering God’s call to reunite with her beloved husband, Alvin. As we bid farewell to Betty, we remember a life filled with dedication, love, and a spirit of adventure that touched the hearts of all who knew her.
Born on December 30, 1930, Betty was the third child of David and Louise Zehner in Dale. Nearly her entire life was spent in the Zehner Addition in Dale, where she took great pride in preserving the town’s history. Betty’s grandfather, David Zehner, was one of the first settlers in Dale, and she dedicated herself to preserving the rich heritage of her beloved hometown. As the youngest in her family, Betty felt a sense of responsibility to prove herself as a smart, hardworking, honorable, kind, and generous woman. Her journey began at Dale Graded School, where she completed grades 1-8, and she later graduated with admirable grades from New London High School in 1948.
A Passion for Education: Teaching, Learning, and Lifelong Friendships
Betty’s journey in education started in September 1949 when she enrolled at Outagamie Rural Normal School to pursue her teaching degree. During this time, she forged many lifelong friendships, cherishing the bonds created in pursuit of her passion for education.
As Betty waited for the love of her life, Al, to return from Germany, she married him in August 1953 at Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Hortonville. Their union was blessed with five children, and they shared 57 wonderful years together until Al’s passing in 2010.
A Teacher’s Heart: Nurturing Minds and Building Legacies
Betty’s teaching career was a testament to her commitment to education. She taught at various one-room schoolhouses, including Clover Leaf and Hickory Grove in Dale, as well as Happy Valley, Sunny View, and Cedar Grove in Greenville. Her journey continued with positions at Hortonville Elementary, St. Thomas More in Appleton, Holy Rosary in Kewaunee, and Most Precious Blood in New London. Beyond the classroom, Betty was an active participant in her schools’ sporting events and extracurricular activities. She extended her passion for teaching to the community by teaching CCD at church. Betty was a proud member of various organizations, including Royal Neighbors of America, Dale Historical Society, Outagamie Retired Education Association, Dale Homemakers, and the Ladies Society.
A Lifelong Explorer: The Spirit of Adventure
Betty’s love for travel knew no bounds. Her career as a teacher provided her with summers off, and she made the most of it by traveling every summer with her family. Even after retirement, she continued to embrace every opportunity for adventure, exploring destinations far and wide with friends and family.
Whether it was trips out west with Val, visits to California and Ohio with Veronica, or New Orleans with Vicki, Betty’s enthusiasm for exploration was infectious. She was always ready to pack her bags and seize the chance to discover new places. Betty is survived by the enduring love of her life, Daniel S. Sippel, Sr., whom she married on June 16, 1956.
Together, they built a legacy of love that extends to their children—Paula (David) Dufendach, Timothy (Rebecca) Hawkins, Janice (Phil) Niekerk, and Jennifer (Lee) French. Her influence is evident in her 13 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. In memory of Betty, the community is invited to share special memories with her family and friends.
