Elizabeth Ann “Betty” Grondalski passed away peacefully at her home on May 15, 2026, at the age of 95. Born on July 2, 1930, in rural Indiana, she was raised on her family’s farm, attended a one-room schoolhouse, and graduated from Clay Township High School.

As an Air Force wife, Betty raised her family in Tucson, Arizona; Salina, Kansas; Beale Air Force Base, California; and Castle Air Force Base before settling in Atwater in 1971.

Betty loved Jesus deeply and faithfully served others through music, kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith. For more than 50 years, she played piano and organ for churches and military chapels, including Evergreen Christian Center. She also directed children’s choirs and musical productions, played handbells, and taught piano to many students over the years. She enjoyed sunshine, long walks, picnics, cooking, sewing, travel, puzzles, and gathering with family and friends. She was also a founding member of the Merced County Republican Women Federated and served for many years as the lead poll worker in Atwater elections.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Francis Grondalski; son Jeffery Shively; grandson Matthew Shively; and brothers and sister: Russell Fawcett, Mary Lou Harrell, and Dick Fawcett.

She is survived by her sister, Sharron McConnell; daughter-in-law Shelly Shively; and five children: Cynthia (Bob) Kilpatrick, James Grondalski, Barbara (Dave) Hunsuck, Laura (Alan) Mathiowetz, and John (Sonja) Grondalski. Betty’s family spanned five generations, including 17 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great- grandchildren — with several more joyfully expected. She lovingly remembered them all, faithfully sending birthday cards year after year.

Betty’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to all who have supported us through many expressions of kindness toward us: your phone calls at just the right time, the hugs, the cards, texts, Facebook posts, recalling so many great memories that you shared with our Mom. We love you all and are thankful that you knew our Mom. You made all our lives richer. 

Memorial donations may be made to Merced County Republican Women (MCRW), 516 St. Kevin Ct., Merced, CA 95348, or to Alpha Pregnancy Help Center of Merced at alphaphc.com. The family appreciates your remembrance and support of these organizations that were meaningful to her.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Elizabeth Ann Grondalski, please visit our floral store.