Elizabeth L. “Bette” Bradash, 99, a long time resident of New Prague, Minnesota, died Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017, at Mala Strana Rehabilitation Center.

Born Feb. 26, 1917, in New Market, Minnesota, to Henry and Mary Sebek, her first years were spent helping her father at his sawmill and creamery in Plum Creek, Minnesota. In 1932 Bette moved with her family to New Prague where she finished high school. During World War II, she trained and worked in the nursing profession prior to being united in marriage to Francis Bradash.

Living in Austin, Minnesota, with her husband and four children, Bette was always volunteering where needed, spending many hours working with Catholic Charities and assisting migrant farm workers. She was personally involved with  helping Spanish speaking families with relocation needs and was recognized by the Bishop of the Diocese of Winona for her extraordinary efforts. In addition, she was always thinking of others- knitting stocking caps and making quilts, not to mention recycling greeting cards, never missing someone’s birthday. She was very proud of her Bohemian heritage and had the privilege to travel to the Czech Republic while working on her ancestor’s history.  From the verse “ Hail Mary, Gentle Woman” those words define Bette- strong, peaceful dove, gentle and bright. Bette was dedicated in helping those in need with positive thoughts and her legacy will be passed on generations to come.

She leaves behind daughter: Sandy [Dick] Millerbernd, sons: Craig [Patti] Bradash and Bruce Bradash, special friend: Snigdha Sagar and daughter Sammy, nine grandchildren: Rebecca and Thomas Hanson, Matthew, Michelle, Danielle, and Eric Klatt, Heather Boyum, Jarad Behne, Katie Reich and several great grandchildren. Awaiting Bette in heaven is her beloved husband, Fran, and daughter, Nancy, along with her parents and sisters.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2017, at Bruzek Funeral Home in New Prague with Father David Barrett officiating. Friends may call at 10 a.m. prior to the service. Interment will be at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church Cemetery in New Prague following Mass. In lieu of flowers, memorials are the preferred donor’s choice.