Betty M. Van Duyne

WILMINGTON—Betty M. Van Duyne, 91, of Wilmington, passed away peacefully at her home on the morning of Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, with her loving family at her side.
Born on Aug. 2, 1934, in Essex, IL, Betty was a daughter of James Sr. and Catherine (Motta) Lardi. She was raised in Essex and Braidwood, and later moved to Wilmington where she graduated from Wilmington High School with the class of 1952. During her school years, she was an active member of the Future Homemakers of America (FHA), the Literary Club, and the Pep Club—an early reflection of the vibrant and giving spirit that would define her life.
On Jan. 15, 1955, Betty married Alvin “Allie” P. Van Duyne at St. Rose Catholic Church in Wilmington. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, and faith, raising their children in a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unwavering support.
A devout member of St. Rose Catholic Parish, Betty dedicated more than 50 years to the Council of Catholic Women. She was a cornerstone of the parish community, volunteering her time for funeral luncheons, turkey dinners, and many other events. Betty enjoyed to cook, and her culinary talents, particularly her Asian chicken salad and deviled eggs, were cherished staples at countless gatherings. She was honored as Woman of the Year by the council and graced the runway for over five years as a model in the annual St. Mary’s Auxiliary style show held at Olivet Nazarene University.
Betty’s commitment to service extended far beyond the church walls. She was a proud member of the University of Illinois Home Extension Organization for over five decades, and a dedicated volunteer for Our Caring Closet and at both the Children’s Garden of Elwood and the Riley Fox Memorial Park in Wilmington. Her giving nature touched many lives and left a lasting impression on her community.
Professionally, Betty was a licensed beautician, working in Wilmington and contributing her talents and creativity to those she served. Alongside her husband, she co-owned and helped manage several local businesses, including Lorenzo Recreation Center, Allie Van Duyne Mechanical Contractor, and Illinois Valley.
In her leisure time, Betty found joy in travel—especially to Hawaii, Canada and Florida—gardening, floral arrangements, and adult coloring, where she expressed her artistic flair and love of nature.
Betty will be remembered for her steadfast faith, generous heart, and gentle soul. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, great-grandmother, and a treasured friend. Her legacy of kindness, strength, and selfless service will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be dearly missed and forever loved.
Survivors include her children: Debbie (the late Gary) Choo, of Kapaau, HI; Sheila (Joe) Meyers, of Elwood; Sally Vedder, of Wilmington and Betty (Dave) Frankovich, of Canada; four grandchildren: Joey (Melissa) Meyers, of Elwood; Zachary Vedder (fiancé Sabrina), of Wilmington; Katy (Nick) Grygiel, of Wilmington and Allie (Scott) Pruitt, of Florida; six great-grandchildren: Braylen Zajda, Jack Grygiel, Elly Grygiel, Evelyn Pruitt, Hudson Pruitt and Theodore Meyers; one sister-in-law, Joyce Van Duyne and numerous nieces and nephews.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Allie; siblings: Joe (Millie) Lardi, Tisha (Clarence) Payne, Theresa Lardi, Rosie (Leroy) Van Duyne, Katherine (John) Dixon, James (Bernice) Lardi and Charles Lardi.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, Aug. 12 in St. Rose Catholic Church in Wilmington. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated with Reverend Sebastian Gargol presiding and Deacon Jay Plese assisting. Those wishing to view the live stream from St. Rose Church can find the link on Betty’s memorial page.
Burial was in Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery in Wilmington, where Betty was laid to rest with her late husband, Allie.
Preferred memorials in lieu of flowers may be made as gifts in Betty’s memory to the Children’s Garden Project of Elwood, 401 E Mississippi Ave., Elwood, IL 60421
Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photos and share Betty’s memorial page online through social media.
Funeral services and arrangements were made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland and Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory.