Betty Jane Brogan

Betty Jane Brogan, 74, of L'Anse, died Wednesday evening, January 11, 2006, at Bayside Village in L'Anse.

She was born May 14, 1931, in Alston, MI, a daughter of Emil and Jenny (Hepola) Hill. On June 18, 1949 Betty married Joseph Martin Brogan in L'Anse.

As a young girl, Betty attended the Alston School and was very fond of the area and proud of her Finnish Heritage. She had true SISU. Betty also attended Baraga High School and graduated with the class of 1950.

Betty was a loving wife to Joe and devoted to her family. She was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, a former Girl Scout leader and a member of the Red Rockers Square Dance Club.

She was gifted as an accomplished seamstress and was known for her beautiful bridal gowns. Betty taught Bishop Sewing classes as a community schools program and later owned and operated "Brogans Fabric Shop" in L'Anse. Above all, Betty loved to sew for her grandchildren.

At age 55, Betty lost her vision and became home bound. She enjoyed books for the blind and remained home until September 2002 when she became a resident at Bayside Village, where she loved the staff and made many new friends.

Betty is survived by her sons, Dennis (Pam) Brogan and Larry Brogan; daughters, Colleen (Pat) Ketola and Betty Jane (Mark) Usitalo, all of L'Anse; a sister, Darlene (Bill) Sands of Florida; sister-in-law, Delores Hill of Marquette; 14 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Her parents; loving and amazing husband, Joe; granddaughter, Holly Renae Giddings; and brother, Charles G. Hill preceded her in death.

At the family's request, there will be no services.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider Sacred Heart Catholic School at 433 E. Baraga Ave., L'Anse, MI 49946

The Jacobson Funeral Home is assisting the family.