Obituaries detail

Elizabeth (Betsy) Ruth Titterington
Jun 09, 1951 - Aug 03, 2018

Elizabeth Ruth Titterington was born June 9, 1951 in Kansas City and died after a brief illness with metastatic colon cancer. She is survived by her husband, Reverend Dr. Michael Brecke, stepchildren Anna and Matthew Brecke, four siblings; Dr. Frank W. Titterington III (Barbara), John Ross Titterington (Beth), Mary Frances Titterington Edwards (Doug), Paul Paterson Titterington (Cheryl Dillard), seven nieces and five nephews. She was preceded in death by her twin brother, William, her parents Betty and Frank Titterington, and her sister, Judy Lindsay.

 

Betsy attended E.F. Swinney and W.C. Bryant grade schools and was a 1969 graduate of Southwest High School in Kansas City.  She graduated from the University of Missouri at Kansas City where she was a member of Chi Omega sorority.

 

After working for the Kansas City Parks Department and then a job in Palo Alto, California, Betsy found her true passion, that of directing races. She was involved with the Kansas City Marathon, Children’s Mercy Run, Plaza Classic, St. Pat’s Run, Trolley Run and Baptist Medical Center Triathlon, just to name a few.

 

Another passion of Betsy’s was cooking. She received a degree at the Culinary Institute of America in Napa, California and co-founded the Culinary Center of Kansas City.

 

After Betsy’s marriage August 19, 2001, she and Michael moved to Door County, Wisconsin where she taught at the Savory Spoon Cooking School, was a cook at the Clearing Folk School and then became a Cheese Monger.

 

Upon returning to Kansas City, Betsy joined her sister, Mary and nephew, Paul at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate.

 

Betsy had an incredible loving spirit that created much joy and gratitude among those fortunate enough to know her.

 

Her memorial service will be at 10:30 AM on Saturday, August 18 at First Lutheran Church, 6400 State Line Road, Mission Hills, KS 66208.

 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to First Lutheran Church 6400 State Line Road, Mission Hills, Kansas 66208 or a donation to the Titterington Memorial Fountain at Central United Methodist Church, 5144 Oak Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64112.


 

Additional Service:
Memorial Service
Location:
First Lutheran Church
Address:
6400 State Line Road
City:
Mission Hills
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66208
Date of Service:
Aug 18, 2018
Time of Service:
10:30 am
Additional Information:

 A reception will follow.

Google Map:

Condolences

Dave Garrison Aug 08, 2018

High School Friend ,Weston ,Missouri

Rest in peace Betsy. You were one of those genuinely good people that this planet could use many more of. You made high school better just because of your smile.

Diane Novak Gardner Aug 08, 2018

Sorority sister ,Vian ,Oklahoma

Betsy made this world a better place. I always smile when I think of her. RIP my friend.

Bill & Sunshine Walker Aug 08, 2018

Friends ,Ellison Bay ,Wisconsin

We will greatly miss her.

denton sanders Aug 08, 2018

friend of family ,Kansas city ,Missouri

So very sorry for your loss. From the entire Sanders family.

Rochelle Wright Bayne Aug 10, 2018

Class mate Southwest High School ,Kansas City ,Missouri

Betsy was very intelligent , supportive,and had a kind heart. Sorry for your loss.

Anne and Minnow Emerson Aug 10, 2018

Friends ,Fish Creek ,Wisconsin

Yes, Betsy’s smile, and the sunshine in her voice. Betsy and Michael are among the people we hold closest to our hearts. We met in 2006, led to Michael’s Juddville Lutheran church by a lost blind dog, and we became friends in an instant. Always dinners with treasured friends on Valentine’s Day, celebrating Betsy’s June 9th birthday each year on Washington Island, election nights, running through sprinklers with grandchildren, watching Betsy and Michael spin across many dance floors after weddings. They formed so many friendships in Door County, and we all grieve along with their Kansas friends. Yes, she did make the world a better place, her laughter and her joy, her pure heart.

Andrew R Sackin Aug 10, 2018

Friend and School Mate ,Leawood ,Kansas

I thought the world of Betsy finding her a most generous friend and an intelligent, interesting and giving lady. Betsy and I were very close friends at Southwest High School, but we then went down different paths keeping in touch through letters and Christmas Cards. I moved back to Kansas City for two+ years after Graduate School, before returning to New York, New York. At that time Betsy and I reconnected and would have breakfast together at least once a week some place on The Plaza, as we both lived in that area. Both Betsy and I were "runners" and we loved to cook. Time took us in different directions and to different cities, yet when we were together at a reunion or would see one another when I was home from New York for a holiday our conversation would pick up mid-sentence, where we had left off. Our World was a better place because of Betsy and Our World will miss her physical presence. We will always have the memory of her generous and caring spirit and I will miss her greatly!

Julie Bartels Smith Aug 11, 2018

Friend of Michael ,Leawood ,Kansas

Dear, Dear Michael - Daryl and I are so sad to hear this news. We are thinking of you and praying for comfort and peace. I had not met Betsy with you but just realized she and I worked together on the Avon Race for Women back in the ‘80’s. What a wonderful woman. You both were a huge blessing to each other, I am sure. Take care. Love, Julie

Sharon Calvin Powell Aug 12, 2018

Pledge Sister Chi Omega UMKC ,Excelsior Springs ,Missouri

Betsy was a wonderful, kind and supportive “sister”. She made our sorority house a brighter place when she was there. RIP Godspeed to your family and friends. She will be missed by all who,loved her.

Patti Ryder Aug 12, 2018

Devoted friend ,Kansas City ,Missouri

I had the good fortune of knowing Betsy for over forty years. She was a woman of extraordinary kindness and generosity whose bright smile and funny sense of humor always possessed genuine warmth and joy. Betsy’s devotion to her family, and friends, was evident in how affectionately she spoke of those within her orbit. As a friend, she asked thoughtfully and listened carefully so she could grasp deeply and respond with tenderness and care. I always admired how Betsy took life on, in her own quiet way, with such success. She never drew attention to herself, it was only in the simple telling that the significance of her accomplishments were understood. I will forever miss our ‘Girls Night’ where for forty years we talked about everything under the sun, through laughter and sometimes tears, forging an impenetrable bond. We had an extraordinary run! “Love it”, two words spoken often and freely by dear Betsy will forever define her sweet spirit in my heart. My deepest condolences to Michael, and family, and the entire Titterington clan.

Judy Shifrin Aug 12, 2018

acquaintance ,KANSAS CITY ,Missouri

I am so sorry to hear of this news. I met Betsy in the early days of the Culinary Center, taking classes there shortly after they opened. I remember her 'true humanity' and am very impressed with all her accomplishments. My sympathy to the entire family.

Paul Turner Aug 12, 2018

My condolences to my old friend John Titterington, and the other members of Betsy's family. May she rest in peace.

Terry Holder-Ryder Aug 12, 2018

Family friend ,Charleston ,South Carolina

Safe Journey, Betsy. With much love until we meet again

Pat and Ed Aalseth Aug 12, 2018

Friends and clients ,Kansas City ,Missouri

Betsy and Mary guided us through two home purchases, with much-appreciated expertise and a great sense of humor. So sorry to learn about this.

James Guglielmino Aug 12, 2018

Betsy was a lovely and talented person. I share her loss with family. Jim Guglielmino

John and Diana Cater Aug 12, 2018

Friend ,Independence ,Missouri

So many good memories of Betsy. A wonderful, smart, compassionate girl with a great-to-see-you smile and hug. Much love to Michael and the Titterington family. John

Susan Cox Aug 13, 2018

Acquaintance ,Boerne ,Texas

So very sorry to hear about Betsy’s passing. I knew Betsy through our mutual friend Sarah Boyer. My sincere condolences to her family.

Fritzi Hazelrigg Aug 13, 2018

Betsy changed my life. She shared her passion for race directing and involvement in running activities of all kinds and it became my passion. For30 plus years, until my bad experience at a running store, the passion that Betsy shared with me was my life. I never told Betsy this. I hope she understood. My great-great granddaughters birthday party is at the same time. I will make a donation to the drinking fountain that I used many times.

Joanie Rensch Morlan Aug 13, 2018

friend ,Kansas City ,Missouri

I am both shocked and saddened by this news. I met Betsy through a mutual friend of ours many years ago and she joined us in many get togethers with our kids when they were young and rowdy! Though she had none of her own, she was always kind, happy and caring-with a great spirit. I am so proud of all her accomplishments-she will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family, siblings and other loved ones. Sincerely with Love, Joanie

Laures Simmons Aug 13, 2018

Friend ,Kansas City ,Missouri

I remember meeting Betsy for the first time in 8th grade at Southwest Highschool. She was always one of the most delightful, funny and kind people I have ever met. She met people easily and made everyone feel so comfortable. Betsy introduced me to a lot of the friends I’ve had over the years. We went on to UMKC together and also worked at Camp Oakledge in the Ozarks for two summers. She and her siblings frequently traveled to foreign countries since their Dad worked for an airline. She would always bring little presents back for her friends even though, as we all know, it is a hassle to carry extras back in luggage. She was always thinking of others. I remember when she and her business partner were in the process of setting up The Culinary Center of Kansas City. I was so impressed with it and loved that she loved what she was doing. Her love of cooking was a great source for some gatherings with friends and it was always a delicious and lovey experience. We kept up our friendship off and on over the years, and I missed her a lot when she and Michael moved to Wisconsin. I was so happy when they moved back to KC and was looking forward to much more time with her. I am having a hard time with the fact that this time with her has been cut short, but am very grateful for the memories. To her family: I know how much you all love Betsy and will miss her. Yours is the hardest journey. You are constantly in my prayers and thoughts. God bless you all. Laures Simmons

James McGuire Aug 13, 2018

Schoolmate Southwest ,Kansas City ,Missouri

Father God, please bless Betsy's soul, her family and friends. Thank you for her life and the time you gave us with her with us. In Jesus name. Amen

Vicki & Carl Ryder Aug 14, 2018

friends ,PRESTON ,Missouri

Betsy was a kind soul and a delight to be around. While we may not have seen each other these past few years, we always thought of her fondly and considered her to be part of the family. Once, she came to our house in Paola and brought the makings for the most fabulous chocolate brownies we've ever had. We will miss her presence in our lives. Our condolences to the family. RIP Betsy.

Zodie Vickers Aug 15, 2018

Swinney classmate ,Lenexa ,Kansas

I had been in touch with Betsy during her "cooking" days and was intrigued at the life she had led. I'm so sad for all of you in her loss; but I'm so happy that you had the privilege of being related to such a delightful person. May God grant you comfort in these days.

Pat Lee Aug 15, 2018

Friend and co-worker ,Ellison Bay ,Wisconsin

I was so fortunate to have known and worked with Betsy. She was a cook at The Clearing Folk School in Ellison Bay where she prepared creative, beautiful and delicious food for the students. I saw her grace in action every day. She lived her faith and I was blessed to have learned the way to the higher path by watching Betsy.

Elizabeth Lowman Aug 15, 2018

patient of Dr. Titterington ,Kansas City ,Missouri

Dear Dr. Titterington. I was sad to have read about your sister Betsy. You are in my thoughts and my prayers.

John D. Estes Aug 15, 2018

Friend from Southwest High School ,Shawnee ,Kansas

Betsy was a good friend from Southwest. Our mothers also taught school together. Betsy will be deeply missed. May God extend his love & care on the family during this time of grief.

margaret boomer Aug 16, 2018

friend to family ,Prairie Village ,Kansas

God's Blessings to the Titteringtons and Michael Brecke, We have loved knowing the Titterington family especially Frank and Pat. It was wonderful finding out that our friend and Pastor Michael was marrying a Titterington. I know Betsy was a special person because she was part of these special people. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you all. Love, Margaret and Bruce Boomer

John & Sharen Young Aug 16, 2018

friends ,Fish Creek ,Wisconsin

We just heard the sad news and are heartbroken for Michael and all of the family. We know God and good friends will help during this time and send our love and prayers. She was a special lady with a beautiful smile in our memories.

Blair Stringfellow and Judy Johnson Aug 16, 2018

friends of the family ,Overland Park ,Kansas

Although we weren't lucky enough to know Betsy well, we have happily known other members of the amazing Titterington family for many years and are saddened by this too-early loss for them. Through them, we heard good stories about Betsy. Clearly, she was a lovely, interesting, and vital person who meant a great deal to her family and a much wider community of friends, all of whom will feel her absence and miss her profoundly. We are sending our heartfelt condolences. Blair S. and Judy J.

Gregory Robbins Aug 16, 2018

Co worker at Kansas City Parks and Recreation ,Kansas City ,Missouri

Im so sorry to hear about Betsy's passing, she was a wonderful person. Rest in Peace.

Rick & Sarah Beyer Aug 17, 2018

friend ,Leawood ,Kansas

We were saddened by the loss of such a gracious and fun-loving lady. She brought light to every gathering and was a true friend to those who knew her. She will be missed but not forgotten.

Nicholas and Ashley Breeden Aug 18, 2018

Family Friend ,Manhattan ,Kansas

Ashley and I are very sorry to hear of your loss. We will keep you and your family in our prayers.

Jane Dolley Aug 19, 2018

Friend ,Hertford ,North Carolina

I met Betsy many years ago, in the early 1990s when I was involved with the Road Runners Club of America. She was a key volunteer in the running community not only for Kansas City and the entire state of Kansas but also on a national level. We clicked from the beginning. I was drawn to her not only for her leadership capabilities but also for her warm and upbeat personality. I relied on Betsy to help me in many areas, and she was always there, ready to help in any way. It has been many, many years since we have connected but my memories of Betsy never left me. When she opened her Culinary business, she remembered to send my husband, Ken, a tee shirt and a hat. Each time he wears these, I remember Betsy, her smile and her voice. I truly believe in Heaven and I truly believe Betsy will be there to welcome me home.

Mary and Scott Mitchell Aug 23, 2018

Micheal, We are very saddened by you loss. You and Betsy were so perfect together. The pain you feel is hurting us as well. Always remember that you were a big portion of our lives for which we are grateful. No more pain, just peace for Betsy. May God Bless all for the loss of someone so dear to you.

Robin Hoffman Sep 05, 2018

friend ,Denver ,Colorado

Dear Michael, Edward and I are so sad to hear of Betsy's passing. We know this is a huge loss to you. I loved reading about all of the things she did in her life. I can see why you loved and married her! We would love to hear from you if you come through Denver. You are welcome here any time. Surely your memories of Betsy and your time together will be of comfort to you as you make your way now. We send you heartfelt wishes of peace and friendship. Robin and Edward Hoffman