Betty Demo

Betty Louise Demo, 85, of Waukegan, Illinois, died on Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at Terrace Nursing Home in Waukegan. Betty was born June 17, 1924 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, graduated from the Wisconsin State School for the Deaf in Delavan, Wisconsin then attended Design School in Milwaukee. As a young adult, Betty became a part of Wisconsin State Fair history in 1948 after designing the costume for the First Alice in Dairyland. Her award winning costume was also featured on a 10 ft. mechanical version made of Alice in Dairyland which fair goers enjoyed for many years. Although Betty was a deaf mute, she never let it get in her way, working her entire life and enjoying traveling in her later years. Betty was a member of the International Deaf Catholic Association for many years and supported numerous charities throughout her life. Betty is survived by her loving daughter and son, Celia Demo of Waukegan and Bill (Chris) Demo of Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin; one granddaughter, Jennifer Demo; and one great-grandson, Kai Demo. Memorial services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Joseph's Indian School, Chamberlain, South Dakota 57326 have been suggested.