Elizabeth "Betty" Brinkman, 93, Huron, passed away peacefully in the presence of family on Wednesday, December 14, 2016 at SunQuest Healthcare Center in Huron.

Mass of Christian Burial for Betty will be at 10:30 am, Thursday, December 29 at Holy Trinity Catholic Parish in Huron.  Interment will follow at St. Martin's Cemetery in Huron.

Visitation, with the family present, will be 4-6 pm, Wednesday, December, 28 at Welter Funeral Home in Huron.  Visitation will continue one-hour prior to the service at Holy Trinity Catholic Parish on Thursday, December 29.  In lieu of flowers the family prefers memorials to Holy Trinity Catholic School or Beadle County Humane Society.  Memorials may be sent to Monica Buesing at 761 14th St.  SW, Huron, SD 57350

Elizabeth J. "Betty" Sarahan, the fourth child of Leo & Joanne (Blume) Sarahan, was born on March 18, 1923 in Huron.  She attended Jefferson Elementary and in 1941, graduated from Huron High School.

Betty began dating her life-time sweetheart in 1939.  She and Jim A. Brinkman were married in Rolla, MO on May 28, 1943.  Jim was serving in the U.S. Army at Fort Leonard Wood.  They were married for over 72 years.

Betty had worked at Nortthwestern Bell Telephone as an operator for two years, before her marriage.  She was a wonderful, devoted mother and a stay-at-home mom for her seven children.

Betty and Jim joined the Huron Country Club in 1957, and became lifetime members.  The kids enjoyed the swimming pool for many years.  They began golfing for fun and Betty became a very good golfer, placing in many tournaments and winning numerous trophies.  She also won in a state women's golf tournament, that was even televised!  Betty was also an animal lover, especially birds.  She was always interested in them and very knowledgeable about their habits.

Grateful for having shared in her life are her children, Monica J. (Gary) Buesing, Huron, Deanna M. Parker, Lockport, NY, Teresa J. Brinkman, Glenwood, NM, Jim J. Brinkman, Huron, Joe P. Brinkman, Huron, Laura L. (Lloyd) Lovelace, Woodbridge, VA, and Elizabeth A. Brinkman, Spokane, WA; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jim; brothers, Patrick John, Fredrick Phillip; sister, Mary Eileen; and son-in-law, John Parker.