Barbara "Bitsy” H. Netemeyer

Barbara H. Netemeyer, affectionately known as Bitsy, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, at Aviston Countryside Manor. She was the daughter of Herman (Butch) and Maurine (Fenoughty) Hechenberger. She was born on October 21, 1942, in Belleville, IL.  She married  Glennon "Shorty" Netemeyer in July 1974. He preceded her in death.

Bitsy had a commendable career as a Unit Secretary at St. Elizabeth's and Memorial Hospitals, where her love for the medical profession shone through. She was a natural caregiver, always making it her mission to elicit laughter and comfort from those she interacted with. Her favorite saying often exemplified her infectious spirit: "If I were any better, the world couldn't stand it." This sentiment captured her personality perfectly—optimistic, generous, and deeply committed to helping others.

Bitsy was a two-time breast cancer survivor, a testament to her strength and resilience. Throughout her life, she found solace and joy in reading.

She lived a life dedicated to caring for others and bringing joy to those around her. In her final act of compassion, she chose to donate her body to science, hoping to assist future generations in their journeys toward health and healing.

She is survived by her daughter, Sandy,  (Ken ) Maue; her son, Chuck Horn (Cat);  her treasured grandchildren, Michael Cave, (Liz)  Nicky, Tristan, and Damian;  her cherished great-grandchildren, Lillian, Alex, Emmery, and Jenson. Her siblings, Dan (Carol) Hechenberger , Carol Cronin (Bill Bloom), and Tracy Christ (Eric Santel) Sister-in-law, Teresa Hechenberger .  Neices and nephews—David, Chris, Carlin, Amy, Roman, Joe, Ryan, Sean, Tim,  Jeremy, and Tara held a special place in her heart. Moreover, Bitsy's companionship with her housemate John Smith, (but no hanky-panky!) and her beloved dogs, Gracie and Ollie, enriched her life.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father, her husband, her beloved granddaughter Allysa Maue-Weise (Ed Weise), her brother David Hechenberger, her sister Judie Mueller, and her brothers-in-law Ted Mueller, Kevin Cronin and Jim (Gilly) Christ. 

In keeping with Bitsy's wishes, no funeral services will be held.