Betty Lovendahl  has been a member of St. Luke's for 2 years. She had been feeling down and depressed after losing a job. One Sunday she just decided to get up, get dressed and attend the service at St. Luke's; she has been here ever since. "The people were warm and welcoming; they made you feel like you were a member of the family," was Betty's description of that first encounter and why she continues to be a part of St. Luke's. She has enjoyed volunteering to help with the various activities at St. Luke's like the rummage sale and the spaghetti dinners. She loves to listen to Father Michael and has especially found the Bible classes helpful and informative.
     Born and raised in a German neighborhood on Milwaukee's north side, she is from a family of nine children. One of her sisters and one of her brothers has died. The remaining three sisters and three brothers still live in Milwaukee. She tells how her grandparents on her mother's side came directly from Germany. Her mother was familiar with German and if Betty, or her siblings would upset their mother, she would "cuss" at them in German.
     Betty is a care specialist at Howard Village. Some of her favorite pastimes are walking, reading and doing challenging crossword puzzles.
     She has a daughter who lives in Whitefish Bay and a grandson Andrew whom she describes as the cutest 4-year-old. Betty also has a son who lives in Eagle River where, in June, Betty will be making her new home. Betty has been a smiling presence at St. Luke's; she will be missed. We wish her the best in this new chapter of her life.