Betty H. Mathes

Betty H. Mathes, 78, formerly of Cedar Falls, died Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at Azure Memory Care in Sheboygan, WI. She was born February 5, 1946 in Oran, Iowa, the daughter of William and Helen (Lentzkow) Schwake, and graduated from Waterloo West High School. Betty married Eugene "Gene" Mathes on October 1, 1966 in Waterloo. They shared 52 years together before Gene's death on February 22, 2019.

Betty enjoyed taking care of the family home and her children. She was an excellent seamstress who could sew just about anything. She even made clothing for her and her family. Betty was also known for her cooking and made the best mac and cheese. Her family looked forward to every Sunday as Betty prepared a special family meal. Betty also enjoyed reading, puzzles, gardening, watching TV, and had an extensive Beanie Baby collection.

Betty is survived by her children, Jeff Mathes of Cedar Falls and Michelle (Tom) Finnegan of Sheboygan, WI; grandchildren, Blake Mathes, Kyle (Lexi) Finnegan, and Jacob Finnegan; great-grandchild, Harper Finnegan; siblings, Janet Meyer, Kenneth (Cheryl) Schwake; Nancy Stocker (Bob Fischer), Carol (Curt) Graveman, and Dean Schwake; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Gene; niece, Dawn Moffett; nephew, Allan Huegli; and great-niece, Lexi Wood.

Visitation will be on Monday, October 7, 2024 from 10-11am, followed by her funeral service at 11am, both at Dahl-Van Hove- Schoof Funeral Home in Cedar Falls. Graveside services will immediately follow at Cedar Valley Garden of Memories in Cedar Falls. Following Betty's burial, please join the family for a reception at Nazareth Evangelical Lutheran Church in Cedar Falls. Memorial contributions may be directed to Sharon S. Richardson Hospice in Sheboygan, WI.