Elizabeth J. Bonitz

God called Elizabeth home at the glorious age of 96.

Elizabeth "Betty" was born on June 30, 1927, in Little Falls MN to the late Frank and Rose (née Domish) Wachlarowicz. She was rich with wonderful childhood memories of Little Falls like fishing with her dad and helping her parents with Frank’s Place, a bar/liquor store and boarding house upstairs. When her family sold that business, they opened the West Side Café.

She met Junior, her husband, at Little Falls High School. After school Junior went off to serve in the Navy in WWII. When he returned, they planned to marry. However, Junior was reinstated to serve again during the Korean Conflict. So, Elizabeth and Junior changed their wedding plans and married in a simple ceremony on January 1, 1951, shortly before he left.

After spending a few years in the Twin Cities, in 1957 they moved to Roseville MN to build their life together. It was there that they raised their son Mark and where she loved to entertain. She enjoyed boating, golf and had a special talent for creating beautiful flower arrangements.

Elizabeth was an extremely hard worker. She was the backbone of the family. Her work ethic came early in Little Falls, working in the family businesses. She also worked at the local creamery and Charles Lindberg State Park. When in Roseville, she worked 30 years at St. Josephs Hospital in Communications and nearly 50 years at Presbyterian Homes. She even volunteered when time permitted.

During tough times and illnesses, Elizabeth always said, “I am one tough Pollack”. However, it was her strong Catholic faith that she never wavered from and saw her through the ups and downs of life. She was a charter member of St. Odilia Catholic Church in Shoreview. When she could no longer attend services, she always supported the church.

Elizabeth is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Junior; brothers, Frank and John (Rose); and sister, Isabelle.

She will be wholeheartedly missed by son, Mark; and daughter-in-law, Sue.

A big thank you Donna Wiersgalla, who has been Elizabeth’s special caregiver and friend for the last 8 years.

Funeral Service 2 PM Friday, July 21 at Roselawn Cemetery Chapel, 803 Larpenteur Avenue West, Roseville. Visitation one hour prior. Private interment to follow.