Betty Lou Knoll

Betty Lou Knoll, age 79, of Hastings, Michigan, passed peacefully on October 18, 2025, surrounded by love and now free from pain. Born August 5, 1946, to Joseph and Viola (Terpening) Harvath, Betty was a graduate of Thornapple-Kellogg  High School and a lifelong resident of Barry County. She married Robert Knoll on June 25, 1988, and they enjoyed 30 years together until his passing in 2018.

Betty dedicated her heart to caring for others, working at the Fort Custer State Home in Battle Creek with special needs children, and later at Bradford White. Her compassion extended beyond her work—she was known for her warmth, her infectious smile, and her ability to make friends wherever she went.

She found joy in floral arranging, crafting, birdwatching, and baking, and cherished her years living on the shores of Algonquin Lake. Her beloved neighborhood cat friend, Chocolate, was a great source of comfort.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband Robert Knoll; her brother, Joseph Harvath; and her son, Carl Cranmore. She is survived by her sister Shirley (Michael) McNea; daughter Carolyn Pattison; grandchildren Morgan (Abby) VanderKolk, Cierra (Nik Morgan) Pattison, and Kristen Brumels; five great-grandchildren; stepdaughter Casey Solomon; and nieces and nephews Heather (Robijon) Earley and Michael E. McNea.

Her legacy of kindness and joy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Barry County Animal Shelter, 540 North Industrial Park Drive, Hastings, MI 49058.

A celebration of Betty's life will be held in the spring. Details will be shared at www.girrbachfuneralhome.net, where online condolences may also be left.