Elizabeth “Betty” Behrend McIlrath

Age 90. Of Put in Bay, formerly of Chesterland, Betty was born in East Cleveland, Ohio, on February 15, 1921, to Ralph & Katherine (nee Kingham) Behrend. A graduate of Shaw High School Class of 1939. Betty was a natural artist, although she was unable to pursue art schooling during The Great Depression. She married the love of her life, Donald “Mac” McIlrath on Nov 8, 1941. Betty became the ultimate stay at home mom, raising three daughters while still pursuing her artistic endeavors and being an adventurous partner to Mac. Their adventures included skiing in the Rocky Mountains and boating around the Great Lakes. Retirement did not slow Betty. She and Mac took an around the world cruise, snowmobiled through Yellowstone National Park, and went white water rafting on the Salmon River Wilderness Area of Idaho at the age of 81. As past president of the Put In Bay YC Ladies Auxiliary, Betty was a member of “Silver Sails,” and was a charter member of the Crews Nest. After a marriage lasting beyond 70 years Betty passed away peacefully with Mac by her side. She is also survived by her daughters Marsha (Jerry) Baumert of FL and Corky (Jerry) McIlrath-Flint of Toledo and Put in Bay, seven grand children and 12 great grandchildren. Her daugter, Judi Harrison, parents and brother, Richard Behrend are deceased. A celebration of her life will be announced. Remembrances/donations may be made to PIB EMS, P.O. Box 401, Put in Bay, OH 32345; PIB Community Swim Sail Program, P.O. Box 881, Put in Bay, OH 43456; Stein Hospice, 1200 Sycamore Line, Sandusky, OH 44870 or Riverview Health Care Campus, 8180 W State Route 163 Oak Harbor, OH 43449-8855.