Phoenix, AZ - Elizabeth "Betty" Jean Larson (nee Hecko), age 81, of Phoenix AZ, and longtime resident of Ishpeming MI passed away on Tuesday May 9, 2017 at Hawthorne Court of Ahwatukee.

Betty was born at the Ishpeming Hospital in Ishpeming Michigan on July 11 ^th 1935 To Ellis John Hecko and Mary Elizabeth Agatha (Agartha) Hecko (nee Youren). Betty graduated from Ishpeming High School in 1953. Betty was married to Douglas D. Larson on April 17th 1954, they were married 63 years.

Betty worked for The Miners' First National Bank & Trust Company of Ishpeming, and later for Metropolitan Life. She enjoyed Baking, Crochet, Knitting, Sewing, Quilting and spending time at Camp during the summers. After her retirement she looked forward to her winters in Gulf Shores, AL, where she enjoyed Painting. She was actively involved in ministry at Bethel Lutheran Church, as a Sunday School Teacher and in Women's Groups.  She was a member and a Past Matron of the Order of the Eastern Star. She also enjoyed card club evenings and Friday morning coffee with her friends.

Betty is survived by her Husband Douglas D. Larson of Phoenix, AZ, Daughter Kathy (Brian) Penny of Burlington, WI, Son Greg Larson of Phoenix, AZ, Grandchildren - Stephen Penny, Devin Larson and Michelle Penny, Sister in Law Clarice Pynnonen of Negaunee, along with several Nieces, Nephews, and other family and friends. Betty was preceded in death by her Mother Agartha Hecko, Father Ellis Hecko, Sisters Susan Simons (nee Hecko) and Barbara Maki (nee Hecko)

The family will greet relatives and friends from 12:00noon until 1:00pm on Monday May 15, 2017 at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home.  Funeral services will follow at 1:00pm in the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home with the Rev. Lauri O. Maki to officiate.  Interment will take place at the Ishpeming Cemetery. A luncheon will follow at the Bethel Lutheran Church.

Betty's obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.