Clarence Leroy Betts

Clarence Leroy BettsLoving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather Clarence Leroy Betts, 90, a resident of Rockford since 1953, went to be with the Lord on December 21, 2009 in his home surrounded by his loving family.  Clarence was born November 9, 1919 in Charles City, Iowa the son of George and Iva (Gillett) Betts. Clarence married Kathryn E. Smith on June 14, 1941 in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Clarence worked as an inspector for Barber Colman Company for 29 years.  He was a lifetime Chicago White Sox Fan, loved big band music, was an avid golfer, model railroader, wonderful baker and cook, was known for his homemade chicken noodle soup and cookies, and was called the cookie monster. Clarence is survived by his wife, Kathryn; children, Donald (Dahna) Betts, Barry (Nancy Lindquist) Betts, Pat Betts, and Carole (Michael) Lester; grandchildren, Brian McCaslin, Melissa Saelens, Michelle Williams, Jessica (David) Estrada, Julie (Michael) Piskulla, Patrick Betts, Sarah Betts, Mary Turner, and Marcie Turner; great-grandchildren, Ryan and Seth Saelens, Daniel McCaslin, Travis Lane, Lucas Betts, and Clare Turner. He was predeceased by his parents; daughter, Mary McCaslin; grandson, Howie McCaslin, and brother, Merle Betts.  A special thank you to Marcie Turner for her compassionate care given to Grandpa Clarence for over 15 years. Memorial mass will be celebrated on Saturday, December 26, 2009 at 10 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4401 Highcrest Road, with Rev. Msgr. Thomas Bales as celebrant.  Burial will be private.  Memorial visitation will be held on Saturday from 9 a.m. until time of mass.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Shriners Childrens Hospital, 2211 N. Oak Park Avenue, Chicago, IL 60707.  Family and friends may