Elizabeth J. 'Betty' Ortman

Elizabeth “Betty” J. (Aldrich) Ortman, 77, of Meadville, died Friday, March 24, 2006 at Hamot Medical Center, Erie, PA.

She was born January 11, 1929 in Silver Creek, New York, daughter of the late Sydney E. and Freda V. Aldrich.  She married Kenneth M. Ortman September 18, 1954 and he preceded her in death July 10, 1991

She was a graduate of Silver Creek High School in New York and Meadville City Hospital School of Nursing.  She spent her career as a Registered Nurse working at Meadville City Hospital, Spencer Hospital, and most recently retired from Wesbury United Methodist Community.

She was a dedicated member of the First Presbyterian Church in Meadville where she was proud to serve in various positions including Elder, President of Presbyterian Women, a Member of Faith Circle, and a Sunday School Teacher.  Also, she willingly served her community as Director of the YWCA in Meadville.  Elizabeth’s life was about taking care of her family and the people she encountered.  She found joy in the simplest of things from watching a flower bloom to the sound of beautiful music and playing the piano.

Survivors, include a son, Scott S. Ortman and his wife Shirley of Tarentum; a daughter, Rebecca L. Ortman of Meadville; a granddaughter, whom she dearly loved, Jessica A. Ortman of Tarentum; a son-in-law, William D. Kusen of Coraopolis and a sister, Rachel A. Hatch of Greensburg.  She is also survived by a nephew, Paul G. Hatch of Greensburg; a niece, Rebecca L. Davidson of Greensburg and first cousins, Elliott Masman and his wife Jane of Sheridan, NY and Patricia Zabel and her husband Al of Huntington, WV.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Alice Freda Kusen; and a sister Martha L. Aldrich.

True to her nature, Elizabeth requested that her body be donated for medical research and therefore there will be no visitation.  A memorial service will be held Tuesday at 11 a.m. in the Chapel of First Presbyterian Church, 890 Liberty Street, Meadville with the Rev. Brian K. Jensen, Pastor, officiating.

Should friends desire, memorial donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church at the address listed above.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Robert W. Waid Funeral Home, Inc., 581 Chestnut Street, Meadville.