Betty Jane Grinn, age 93, of Kendallville, passed away on Wednesday, January 19, 2022 at home. Mrs. Grinn was born in Evansville, Indiana on February 13, 1928 to John Max and Mildred Norma (Schauss) Pemberton. Betty began playing the accordion and at 17 years of age, in 1945, began entertaining at USO engagements across the mid-west during WWII as Betty Burton and her orchestra. She graduated from Reitz High School and in the next year met and married the love of her life, James Robert Grinn. They were married on January 8, 1948. They lived in Evansville, Indiana and raised two children, James Michael and Mindy Grinn. Betty was an office manager for the University of Evansville for over two decades earning an associate degree while there. Betty and Jim moved to Kendallville, Indiana in 1994 to be closer to family. Jim preceded her in death December 4, 2007. Betty was an avid reader, a skilled carpenter, and an accomplished seamstress. She cherished her family and friends and her Trinity Church United Methodist family. Betty was deeply loved and she will be greatly missed.
Survivors include:
Son, J. Michael Grinn of Plano, Illinois.
Daughter, Mindy and Keith Hoffar of Kendallville, Indiana.
Grandchildren: Kate Grinn of Aurora, Illinois; Clint Hoffar and Claire DeCamp of Salt Lake City, Utah; and Lauren Hoffar of Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Sister, Linda and Steve Reed of Cherry Log, Virginia.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Mildred Pemberton Kerby Lipper; father Max Pemberton; husband, James Grinn; and brothers, Roger Pemberton and Bob Kerby.
There will be a memorial service held at a later date. Date to be announced.
Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Betty (Pemberton) Grinn to the American Cancer Society or University of Evansville.
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