Obituary: Rebecca Jean Betten

LEMONT, IL — Rebecca J. Betten (Aunt Becky), 78 of Lemont, died on Sept. 29, 2020. She was born Nov. 26, 1941 in Waco, Texas to the late Charles and Rebecca Perez.

She is survived by her daughter Kim Hoinacki; cherished grandchildren Hailey Stone (Nick), Sam Hoinacki, Noah Hoinacki; and beloved great grandchildren Averie and Max. Loving aunt to many nieces and nephews and friend to all she met, Rebecca will be sadly missed and fondly remembered.

Rebecca worked 21 years for the Illinois State Police Bureau of Identification in Joliet. After retiring in 2002 she continued her studies, earning an Associates degree in General Studies from Joliet Junior College in 2010.

Rebecca's many interests included gardening, travel, reading, opera, and volunteerism. She loved to attend matinée performances at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Rebecca was a kind, generous and loving woman with a strong desire to give back to her community. She volunteered as a counselor for the Arthritis Foundation's Camp JAM (Juvenile Arthritis Matters), supported the Lemont Food Bank, served as a Friend of the Lemont Township Library promoting and supporting various programs and cultural events. She actively participated in Seniors and Law Enforcement Together (S.A.L.T.) helping to improve senior crime prevention.

Throughout the years Rebecca provided financial support to many charities, but most fondly to local animal shelter, T.L.C. of Homer Glen from which she adopted many of her furry friends.

In light of COVID-19, a private memorial will be held on Friday, Oct. 9 at the Cremation Society of Illinois in Romeoville. Her ashes will later be inurned with her mother at St. Michael's Cemetery in Orland Park. In lieu of flowers, a donation to any of her favorite charities would be greatly appreciated.