Bette Gene Harbach

Bette G. Harbach, age 80, of Kenosha, was called to her eternal home on January 11, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on August 30, 1945, the daughter of the late William and Helen (Plaushines) Ivy.

Bette was a graduate of Salem Central High School and continued her education at Racine–Kenosha Teachers College in Union Grove and the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. She began her teaching career at Brighton Elementary School and later retired from the Kenosha Unified School District at Somers Elementary School in 2010, leaving a lasting impact on countless students and families.

On June 17, 1973, Bette was united in marriage to Benjamin R. Harbach, Sr. in Kentucky. Together, they were blessed with two children, Benjamin Jr. and Allison, and shared 52 years of marriage.

Bette was a faithful member of New Life Lutheran Church (Friedens) and devoted herself to serving her church and community in many capacities, including the Mt. Zion Preschool Board, Friedens Day Care Committee, Shoreland High School Pacer Patrons, Somers Chargers 4-H Club, Somers Poll Worker, and the Somers Parade Committee, among others.

Left to cherish her memory are her beloved husband, Benjamin; her son, Benjamin Jr. of Cedar Falls, IA; her daughter, Allison (Dan) Lauderdale of Elkhorn; her treasured grandchildren, Wesley, Reagan, Henry, Hazel, Bennett, and Leroy; her brother, Richard (Sharon) Ivy; her sister-in-law, Patty Ivy; and her nieces and nephews.

Having finished her earthly journey, Bette now rests with the Lord and will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother and grandmother, and dedicated school teacher.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

The family extends special thanks to the staff at The Gardens of Ridgestone and Aurora Lakeland Medical Center for the compassionate care they provided to Bette.

A Christian funeral service celebrating Bette’s life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at New Life East (5043 20th Ave., Kenosha, WI 53140). Family and friends may gather for visitation from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with the service to follow at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her honor may be made to Our Harmony Club, Inc., continuing her legacy of love and service.

Casey Family Options Funerals & Cremations

3016 75^th Street Kenosha WI 53142

262-653-0667

www.caseyfamilyoptions.com