Robert S. Betley, 84, Pulaski, was called to his heavenly home on Friday, October 7, 2022. Robert passed away after a brief illness at Bellin Hospital, Green Bay. The son of Stanley and Mary (Wegryzn) Betley was born on April 24, 1938, in Chicago, IL.
Both of Robert’s parents immigrated to the United States from Poland. Interestingly, his mom wanted to board the Titanic but, fortunately, she couldn’t afford a ticket. His parents were wed shortly after her arrival into the U.S. and they initially settled in Ilinois. The family moved to Sobieski, Wisconsin when Robert was a child.
Bob was a 1956 graduate of Pulaski High School. In August of 1960 he married Phyllis Blizniak at Assumption B.V.M. Church, where they continued to be members for several decades. The couple made their home and raised their family in Pulaski. He enjoyed playing accordion. In fact, he was often featured on the news for helping the community celebrate Fat Tuesday by playing the accordion at Smurawa’s Bakery as people came to indulge in Paczki. Bob always had a smile on his face and a story to tell.
Bob worked as a machinist at FMC for over 33 years and finished out his career at Badger Paper. He was a member of the Howard-Suamico volunteer fire department. His community service also included serving as a Village of Pulaski Trustee and acting as a parade Marshal for Polka Days.
He served as municipal judge in Pulaski for 48 years. During his tenure, he was the longest serving living judge in Wisconsin.
Bob enjoyed cooking, canning, woodworking, fishing, hunting, and vacationing at Lac Vieux Desert. Most of all he loved spending time with his family.
Survivors include his loving wife of over 62 years, Phyllis; their children: Steven (Christy) Betley, Appleton, Debbie (Dave) Olson, NC, Chrissy (Dan) Magnin, Howard; eight grandchildren; and a brother, Raymond Betley.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Mary Betley; his daughter, Kathryn Betley; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Anthony and Mary Blizniak; a brother, Erwin (Lorraine) Betley; and his sister, Evelyn (Joseph) Rovinski.
Friends are invited to gather with family at Assumption B.V.M. Church, 119 E. Pulaski St., Pulaski, on Saturday, October 15, from 9 a.m. until 12 noon. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12 noon with Fr. Michael Betley presiding. Guests will be invited to a luncheon in the church basement following Mass. Burial will be in Assumption B.V.M. Cemetery, Pulaski.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to the 4th floor staff at Bellin and to the Unity Hospice Team for their compassionate care.