After graduating from high school, she moved to the “big city” of Lincoln and pursued nursing at Southeast Community College, earning her LPN. She then worked at St. Elizabeth’s in the ER, performing EEGs with care and compassion, and made many lifelong friends.
In 1970, she married the love of her life, Steven Stutzman. Together they raised two wonderful children, Matt and Stacy, just a year apart in age. After time focused on family, Betty returned to the workforce and found a second professional home at Eye Care Specialties, where she worked until retiring in 2014. After retirement, she continued to help and support the family business, Arnold’s Tavern, where she met many amazing people and created lasting memories.
Betty’s greatest joy was undoubtedly her family. She cherished Friday night family get-togethers, making delicious meals and baking treats for the grandkids. Food was her love language, and she spoke it fluently. Betty had a natural flair for creativity, from abstract painting to interior design, and a true green thumb for her flowers and herbs. She had a signature style and an impeccable eye for design. She was known for her strength, selflessness, and beauty—inside and out—especially her beautiful smile and the devoted way she cared for her family.
She loved visiting with her four treasured siblings and their families, and found joy in catching up over coffee or cocktails and a meal. She looked forward to gathering with friends, especially the ECS retirees for lunch and the neighborhood “wine down” ladies. She loved sharing a cocktail and a laugh with those she held dear. Her warmth and spirit touched everyone who knew her.
Betty is survived by her adoring husband of 55 years, Steven Stutzman; her son Matt Stutzman, daughter-in-law Lindsay, grandson Beau, and granddaughter Blake of Overland Park, KS; and her daughter Stacy Beaudette, son-in-law Matt, and grandsons Matthew and Duke of Lincoln. She also leaves behind her beloved siblings: Terry Duba, Connie Teten (Wayne), Gale Wagner (Ray), and Deb Szalawiga (Jerry); along with many nieces and nephews, cousins, loving in-laws, extraordinary friends, and incredible neighbors. She is preceded in death by her parents, Edwin and Helen Duba.
Betty’s absence will be deeply felt, but her spirit will continue to guide us. This isn’t goodbye forever—just “see you around.” We’ll look for the signs, knowing she will be with us, watching over us, reminding us to take care of one another and to “be careful”… until we meet again.
Memorials may be directed to the family for distribution to stock the Little Free Pantries around Lincoln, or made directly to ALS in the Heartland, Children’s Hospital of Omaha, or St. Jude.
Memorial service: Tuesday, September 23rd 11:00 am Roper and Sons South location. Celebration of life to follow after service.
Link to Service Recording: https://vimeo.com/1121193676/849f2d51cb?share=copy