Betty Elaine (Hilgendorf) Brockman, age 84, of Verona, died peacefully at her home at Willow Pointe Assisted Living on September 26, 2008. She was born February 19, 1924, in Beloit, Wisconsin, the daughter of the late Ada (Bussewitz) and Bernhard Hilgendorf. Betty was a 1941 graduate of Appleton High School.

On November 7, 1961, Betty was united in marriage to Donald O. Brockman. As both devoted husband and wife, and business partners they built and ran Brockman Stables in Neenah, Wisconsin. For many years they were deeply involved in the training and showing of American Saddle Bred Horses. Don preceded Betty in death on January 21, 2004.

Betty was also passionate about music and singing and throughout her life was involved in numerous church choirs. She had a gentle spirit and a welcoming nature. She enjoyed her family and numerous friends and affectionately referred to everyone as "darling."

Betty is survived by her sons: Thomas (Maureen) Meyer, Madison, WI; Timothy (Phyllis) Meyer, Spokane WA; stepsons, Timothy (Susan) Brockman, Arlington, VA; Walter (Patricia) Brockman, Lily, WI; Donald Brockman, Denten, TX; and daughter in-law Kathy Brockman, New Glarus, WI. Betty was a beloved Grandmother to Kaila (special friend Chris Thompson) and Benjamin Meyer, Megan and Nathan Meyer, Aerianne, Gavan, Marissa and Terra Brockman, Zoe Rose Brockman, Casey Jefferson, Gabriel and Kate Brockman (special friend Michael Beard). Also surviving Betty is her brother Donald Hilgendorf, Stone Mt, GA, and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation and funeral services will be held at Appleton Highland Memorial Park, 3131 Richmond Street, Appleton, WI, on Tuesday, September 30, 2008. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. with services at 12 noon and entombment to follow. Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home, Seymour, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.muehlboettcher.com.