Obituary of Betty Ann Kinder
Betty Ann “Bubba” Kinder, a native resident of Monroe, Michigan and recent resident of Ann Arbor, Michigan, went home to be with the Lord at the age of 84 on Saturday, June 5, 2021. Betty was surrounded by devoted family, friends, and pets in her daughter Kelli’s home, where she had lived for the past six years.
Born on August 26, 1936, Betty was the daughter of Nick and Elizabeth (Elmer) Kanights of Monroe. Betty was a 1954 graduate of Saint Mary Academy. She married Kenneth “Kenny” Frederick Kinder (originally of Middletown, Ohio) on May 3, 1958, in St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. She was preceded in death by her loving parents. Her cherished husband also preceded her in death on September 14, 2012.
In her earlier years, Betty helped in her parents’ corner store, “Nick’s Self-Serve Market” (formerly located on Jerome Street), then waitressed in their restaurant, “Michigan Bar & Grill” (Betty’s Lounge). After marriage, Betty was employed at Sally’s Dress Shop in Monroe and later, the Driver’s License Bureau in Temperance, Michigan. She then worked at Monroe Bank & Trust, retiring after thirty-six years.
Betty was an active member of the St. George Serbian Orthodox Church, where she enjoyed the company of some of her dearest, lifelong friends. She was a member of the St. George Ladies Club, had been a trustee in the church, and was previously a senior member of the catering staff at the St. George Cultural Center.
Betty was a talented chef and enjoyed caring for her family in too many ways to mention. Among her hobbies, she was accomplished in Serbian dancing, bowling, golfing, and cards. She and Kenny enjoyed family trips and hosting holidays, pool parties, and gatherings of every kind. After retirement, Betty and Kenny traveled together and enjoyed music, movies, gardening, landscaping, bird watching, and spending time with their daughters and grandchildren, as well as with their adored dogs. Their home was full of fun, love, and laughter. The door was always open to welcome family, friends, and neighbors, many of whom became extended family.
Betty was well known for her quick wit, quirky sense of humor and cute smile. “Betty Boop” was also renowned for her generous, giving spirit and her boundless energy. Betty, together with her husband Kenny, touched many lives.
Betty is survived by her loving daughters, Denise Elizabeth (Kinder) Biro of Monroe, Michigan and Kelli Ann Kinder of Ann Arbor, Michigan. “Bubba” was adored by her five grandchildren and will be missed by Eric, Elizabeth (Brian Errigo), Evan, Adam and Owen Biro. They will all be forever grateful for the many unique and treasured memories.
Friends may gather from 4:00pm-7:00pm on Friday; June 11, 2021 at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. Father Rade Obsenica of St. George Serbian Orthodox Church will provide a eulogy at 7:00pm.
Memorials are suggested to St. George Serbian Orthodox Church or to the Special Olympics. Online guests may visit www.merklefs.com.
