Ishpeming - Mary Elizabeth "Betty" Waara, age 74, of 635 N. Fifth St. in Ishpeming passed away at 8:40 PM, Saturday, January 10th, 2009 at Bell Hospital.

Betty was born in Ishpeming, Michigan on September 1, 1934, the daughter of the late Arthur R. and Leona (Boullion) Kivisto. She attended Northern Michigan University where she earned a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Speech Communications. She worked as a linesperson for AT&T and Bell Telephone, being the first female linesmen in the Upper Peninsula.

Betty was a member of St. John the Evangelist Church in Ishpeming and enjoyed choral club in her earlier years. Betty was a member of BPW (Business Professional Women) and enjoyed playing cards with her friends. Most importantly, Betty enjoyed her grandchildren and spending time at camp.

Betty is survived by two sons: Mike (Becky) Waara of Rochester, MN, Pat (Chris) Waara of Rochester, NY, a sister: Joyce (Dennis) Evans of Ishpeming, brother and sister-in-laws: Bruce Bartle of Negaunee and Ruth (Pete) Paraventi of Iron River and 5 grandchildren: Carly, Ben, Rob, Nate, and Nick. She was preceded in death by her sister Margaret Bartle and her husband Robert.

Liz is now with Bob.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, January 14, 2009 at 11:00AM at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church with Fr. Greg Heikkala officiating. The family will greet friends and relatives briefly before the service at 11:00AM at the church. A luncheon will follow services. Interment will take place at the Ishpeming Cemetery following the luncheon.