Betty Jean (Onka) Petrechko, 93, of Richmond, passed away quietly at her home in the early morning hours of Sept. 8, 2020. Betty was born on Nov. 20, 1926, in Sugar Creek, to John and Bessie (Clark) Onka. In 1984, she married Edmund A. Petrechko Sr., who preceded her in death on Sept. 7, 1986.

She was preceded in death by her parents; four of her five siblings; her husband; her sons, Edmund A. Petrechko Jr., James M. Petrechko and Mark A. Petrechko; and her daughter, Gina M. Essig.

Survivors include one sister, Gloria Bradley of Blue Springs; a son, Stephen M. Petrechko; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild. She also leaves behind numerous nephews and nieces and other loved ones.

Betty Joined the Navy as a WAVE during World War II, even though she was underage, but served well until discharged. She held several jobs, the last being with Shirkey Leisure Acres, where she worked for many years. During that time, she earned a certificate as an accredited nurse’s aide in October 1989, when she was 63. Betty was still working at Shirkeys at the age of 83, when she had heart surgery.

Betty cared for everyone in her life from family to coworkers to people she would meet. Her family and farm were important to her, and she was very grateful to be at home when she passed.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, at Woodlawn Cemetery, 701 S. Noland Road, Independence, in Section 11, Lot 128.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in the name of Betty Petrechko to the Central Missouri Credit Union; 920 Stonner Loop; Richmond, MO 64085 to help defray expenses.

Thank you, everyone, for you kindness and understanding.