Elizabeth Jane Mackinder

Elizabeth Jane “Betty” Mackinder, age 81, passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2015 in St. Helen, MI with her loving family by her side. She was born to Walter and Marie Smith on March 15, 1933 in Philadelphia, PA. Betty had lived in St. Helen since 2013, formerly of Clinton Township, MI. Betty worked in air traffic control in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War where she met Donald E. Mackinder and married him in Japan in 1953. She was a painter and taught painting. She also enjoyed bowling, traveling, crocheting, knitting, crossword puzzles, Jeopardy, and playing bridge. She was very social and was involved with many activities including Girl Scouts when her children were young.

Betty is survived by her children: Marilyn (Darryl) Nieman of St. Helen, MI; Robert Mackinder (friend, Michelle) of Clinton Township, MI; Susan (Greg) Kopitz of Fair Haven, MI; Kathleen (John) Hannon of Wilmington, NC; Stephen (Mary) Mackinder of San Antonio, TX; sisters: Marguerite Pultro of Poinciana, FL; Vicky Kihm of Philadelphia, PA; brother, Gerard Smith of Deland, FL; 9 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren; and lifelong best friends: Laura Milkey and Carol Bildson. She is preceded in death by husband, Donald Mackinder; sisters, Marie Hueber and Agnes Smith; brothers, John “Jack” Smith and Walter Smith. She was adored by family and friends alike.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later time.

Arrangements were handled by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in St. Helen, MI.