Elizabeth “Betty” Gurlie Romell passed away at the age of 93 on September 13, 2024.
Born to Anton and Mae Wolf on April 18, 1931, in New Rome, Wisconsin, Betty grew up in the country. She loved the lively local baseball games, cheering for her brothers (John and Tony) with a spirited zeal and a beer in hand—a fond memory she often recounted with a twinkle in her eye. She often said she took care of all her drinking in those early years and rarely touched a drop since.
Betty married Robert Romell in 1955 and moved to a farm outside of Adams where they lived for several years before moving to Milwaukee. She really enjoyed all of the activities available, especially going to the Milwaukee Museum to walk through the Streets of Old Milwaukee exhibit and the Botanical Gardens (The Domes) during the holidays.
Betty worked full-time while studying Accounting in the evenings and was one class short of her Associates Degree when the family moved back to the farm in Adams, in the early 70’s. She immediately got a position with Award Homes running the accounting department and continued in this capacity when it was purchased and became Terrace Homes. She really enjoyed her time there and made many life-long friends.
Outside of work, Betty’s life was marked by a commitment to service. She was a board member on the Adams County School Board and the Mid-State Technical Institute Board, shaping educational policies with foresight and care. Her involvement with the Wisconsin Historical Society was a testament to her deep respect for the narrative of history and community legacy.
Known for her love of antiquing and the thrill of discovery at flea markets, Betty’s hobbies reflected her appreciation for the stories each artifact carried. Her gardens were a reflection of her love of the outdoors.
She also did some traveling, visiting her daughter & grandson in many US states and Europe. She especially liked her trip to the Czech Republic, specifically Prague, where her father and mother were from. She also loved Bohemian food including kolaches and potato dumplings in poppyseed sauce.
Betty was predeceased by her devoted husband, Robert Romell, her parents, Anton and Mae Wolf, and her beloved brothers, Tony and John Wolf, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond. She was survived by her daughter Carole La Forge; grandson Anthony La Forge; and great-granddaughter Olivia La Forge.
Honoring Betty’s wishes, her life will be celebrated not with somber services but with a joyful summer picnic in 2025, replete with stories, laughter, and a keg of beer (a nod to her youthful days) — a fitting tribute to a woman who lived a full life.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Southern Wisconsin, an organization aligning with her desire to help those in need.
Carole, having you as a student gave me a chance to get to know your mom. She was proud of you beyond words, and you were indeed the highlight of her busy life. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Sincere condolences to Carole and her family. So sorry for your loss. Your mother left her stamp on everything with which she was involved.
Carole, my sympathy to you. Your mom had a special way of planting flowers, she sure enjoyed her little gardens, especially her blue one, with all her blue globes. Enjoyed her conversation, while helping her put the bar together.
Carole and family…… Knew Betty thru Historical Society for many years, enjoyed many visits with her and enjoyed her knowledge of many local items. Will miss her. Mary Lee Klaus
Very sorry to see that Betty has passed away, she was a great lady, always enjoyed talking with her, sincere condolences to her friends and family.
Carol and Family
There will never be another Betty (Wolf) Romell. Betty lived her life just as she wanted. She was no dought a “Diamond in the Rough”. Being an extremely intelligent individual. Her family was as close, as any I have ever known.
The love she shared with her family, was nothing more than a heart of gold. I was fortunate to have known and worked with Betty. She was the best antique person around the county. We had so many of the most hilarious laughs throughout our time together. I consider Betty a very bright light in my life, that I will be forever blessed and honored to have known her so well, and that she was my friend.
R.I. P. My friend Betty
My sympathy to all!
What a nice tribute to a sweet lady! Carole, we are thinking of you and your family at this sad time. May your good memories sustain you in the days ahead.
romells were neighbors and good family friends very sad…… prayers for all family and friends who will miss her looking forward to that beer if im still around.
So sorry to read about Betty’s passing. Her and Bob were one of the first people we met when we moved up here in 1976 and always enjoyed talking to them. Always remember the good times.
I’m so sorry to hear this. Betty taught me so much about accounting when I worked with her at Terrace Homes. I can also blame her for my love of collecting antiques! My sympathy to you all.
We are so sorry to hear of Betty’s passing. She was a truly wonderful person whom we loved dearly. Betty always kept my dad (Ron) very busy, and we appreciated that. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Please reach out if you need anything.
So sorry to hear of Betty’s passing. She was committed to her community. She will be missed
I’m so sorry Carole on the loss of your mother
May God family and friends comfort you