Elizabeth “Betty” Shaw 1927 – 2026

Elizabeth Shaw (Nee Szakacs), fondly known as Betty, passed away peacefully to eternal life on March 7, 2026.  Betty was 98 years old and was preceded in death by Joseph Shaw and by Francis, her dear companion in later years.

 Elizabeth is survived by her sons, Thomas (Ivy), Claude and James (Kathy). She found great joy in the visits from her grandchildren, Jennifer (Charles), Zachary (Priscilla), Garrett (Kristy), Amanda (Sean), David and Andrew. She held a special place in her heart for her great-grandchildren, Hanna, Camden, Katherine, Ryne, Brooks, Capri, Nolan, Logan and Madison. She is also survived by her devoted friends, Lisa and Dennis, whose steadfast friendship and support meant so much to her.

 Elizabeth was born in Milwaukee, but was raised in Hungary by her parents, Thomas and Theresa, alongside her older siblings, Rose and Joseph.  In her early twenties, she returned to the United States and began a new life in Milwaukee. She learned to speak English, married and raised her family in Wauwatosa and enjoyed her creative work at Kohl’s Kitchen as a Jello-mold designer.

 A proud American, Betty assisted her nephews, Steve and Joe, as they immigrated from Hungary.  She took great pride in watching them become U.S. citizens and raise families of their own, remaining close to them as they all blended old-world customs with new traditions.

 Betty loved gardening, cooking, and the tranquility of the water, living on Okauchee Lake for a period of time and spending the last 25 years on Lake Winnebago. Her grandchildren will forever cherish the memory of her authentic Hungarian cooking. Betty was a patient teacher, passing down the secrets of her beef stew, goulash, and legendary dobos torte to ensure the flavors of her heritage live on through her children and grandchildren.

 The family extends their gratitude to the staff at The Manor of Fond du Lac and the St. Croix Hospice team for their compassionate care.  Elizabeth was a remarkably strong woman who defied the odds numerous times, living a full life with flair and panache. She will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew her.

A visitation and service will be held on Monday, March 16 at the Schmidt & Bartelt funeral home N84 W17937 Menomonee Ave, Menomonee Falls, WI. The visitation will begin at 12:00 with the service to follow at 1:00pm.