Obituary of Betty Jane McLain
Age 76, of Davison, passed away Thursday, September 28, 2023, at Hurley Medical Center. A Funeral Service will take place at 12:30 pm, Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services. Pastor Sarah LaRose-Nettell to officiate, with burial to follow at Great Lakes National Cemetery. Betty’s family will be present to receive friends on Monday from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., and again on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, Betty’s family has asked that memorial contributions be considered to the American Heart Association. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. Expressions of sympathy may be placed on Betty’s tribute wall at martinfuneralhome.com.
Betty was born in Faulkton, South Dakota, on April 13, 1947, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Anton and Anna (Kocher) Selzler. Betty attended high school in Rapid City, South Dakota, and then went on to obtain her cosmetology license at Karl Johns Beauty College in Rapid City, South Dakota. Betty met the love of her life, Allen McLain, while working at a snack bar on McCord Air Force Base where he was enlisted. The two were united in marriage on October 29, 1967. In 1969, Betty moved to Michigan, Allen’s home, while he served in Vietnam until 1970. Once in Michigan, Betty would open a daycare in her home that was called, Betty’s Kids. She had a deep love for all children and even though she was unable to have any of her own she took care of all the children like they were hers. She has had 35 foster children come through her doors and she loved and cared for all of them. In her final days, she even had some of the parents as well as the children come to say goodbye. She was very loved and loved everyone. Betty was a talented crocheter, quilter, and sewer. She loved to make Afghans for her family and friends. Betty could often be seen watching football or baseball while quilting or sewing. She didn’t have a favorite team, just an overall love for the game. She could name many of the players on several teams. She was a kind, generous, and loving person and will be missed by all who knew her.
Left to cherish Betty's memory are her brother, Dewaine and wife, Janis Selzler; sister, Diane Gildner; several nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents, husband of 52 years, Allen; sisters: Loretta Selzler, and Delores Holmberg.