On October 1, 2018 James E. Betke, age 78, passed away at home. He was a resident of Oak Park for 35 years. Husband of Maryellen, nee Stoops; father of Todd (Michele Gelfand) Betke, Kevin (Kim) Betke, Kyle Betke, and Kendra (Cory) Olson; grandfather of Jeanette, Jillian, Megan, Hannah, and a granddaughter to be born in February; son of the late Carl and Helen Betke; brother of Jan (the late Bob) Ryder, Jon (Martha) Betke, and Robin (Mark) Burford; uncle of many nieces and nephews.
In 1961, Jim graduated from Hope College. He moved on to the University of Chicago where he earned degrees in Psychology 1963 and a Juris Doctor in 1966. After spending 35 years at McDermott, Will and Emery, he went into private practice for 15 years, retiring in 2016.
Jim was a member of First Presbyterian Church of River Forest, where he sang in the choir and served as an Elder. He was a past president of the River Forest Tennis Club and served on the board of the Wednesday Journal. Jim was the number one spectator and bleacher coach during his children and grandchildren’s athletic careers.
A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, October 6th, 2018 at 1:30 P.M. at First Presbyterian Church of River Forest, 7551 Quick Avenue, River Forest. Interment Private. In lieu of flowers, memorials to First Presbyterian Church of River Forest or Helen Betke Memorial Music Fund at Hope College, Hope College, Development Services, Attn: Harvey Koedyker, P.O. Box 9000, Holland, MI 49422-9904.
To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of James Earl Betke, please visit our Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Memorial Service
6
Oct
7551 Quick Avenue
River Forest, IL 60305
Helen Betke Memorial Music Fund at Hope College
P.O. Box 9000
Holland, MI 49422-9904
First Presbyterian Church of River Forest
River Forest, IL 60305
