Betty Jo Graveen

Betty Jo Graveen (née Beson), 84, of Lac du Flambeau, peacefully departed this life on May 18, 2024, from her home while surrounded by her loving family.

Throughout her remarkable life, Betty was a beacon of service and dedication to her community. She held various roles, each marked by her unwavering commitment and compassion. Betty began her career as a dental assistant with the Indian Health Service. She was instrumental in the establishment of the Head Start Program in the community. She later worked at the Lac du Flambeau grade school, where she served as an aide. She touched the lives of countless students with her kindness and care.

Her service extended beyond the school walls. Betty was deeply involved in the governance of her community, serving on the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Council and contributing to the justice systems of both Lac du Flambeau and Vilas County. She played a pivotal role in the Wellness Court, striving to create a healthier and more just environment for all.

For an astounding 45 years, Betty dedicated herself to the Lac du Flambeau food distribution program, where she served as director. Her leadership ensured that countless families had access to essential resources, including through partnerships with organizations like the Salvation Army.

Betty’s commitment to education and empowerment led her to serve on the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Education Committee, the Lac du Flambeau Public School Board, and the Nicolet College Board where she worked tirelessly to promote access to higher education and vocational training for her community. Her advocacy and leadership on the board reflected her unwavering belief in the power of education to transform lives.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Betty will be remembered for her boundless generosity, her infectious sense of humor, and her unwavering love for her family. She was a devoted mother to her children Karlene, Marlene (Terry), Tony (Fern), Clarence (Chrissie), Kevin, Joe (Robin), David (Melissa), and Jason. She was a beloved sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother and auntie to many. Betty is survived by her sister, Bonnie (Beson) LeSieur and preceded in death by her father, Henry Beson; mother, Marcella (Engel) Beson; and brothers, Robert (Bobby) Beson and William (Buzz) Beson.

Betty Jo Graveen leaves behind a legacy of service and compassion that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her kindness, her strength, and her indomitable spirit will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and community.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 22, at Bolger Funeral Home — Woodruff Chapel. A funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 23, at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Lac du Flambeau, followed by interment in Memorial Cemetery, Lac du Flambeau.

Bolger Cremation & Funeral Services is assisting the family, bolgerfuneral.com.