Betts, Theadore J.Theadore James Betts, 80, of Wausau, passed away on Friday, January 20, 2017, at Colonial Manor, Wausau.He was born on April 27, 1936 in Lindsey, WI, to the late Alex, Sr. and Martha (Krempin) Betts. He married the former Barbara Lewis in Dubuque, IA, on March 4, 1963.Theadore started and worked at T & E Tree Surgery, Inc. in 1972. He had also worked for the Marathon County Parks Department. Theadore retired in 1994 from Murray Machinery after a 23-year career. He served his country in the U.S. Army enlisting in 1954.He held memberships in the Eagles Club, Elks Lodge, was a lifetime member of the DAV, American Legion, and the NRA. Theadore enjoyed hunting, woodworking, antiquing, and bird-watching. He had a great love for his grandchildren and enjoyed the company of his two cats.Survivors include his wife, Barbara of Wausau; children, Eric (Anna) Betts and Tina Utecht, all of Wausau; brothers and sisters, Roger (Barbara) Betts of Aniwa, David Betts, Lois (Doug) Simonson, Carey (Bert) Stuhr, Ellen Baker, all of Wausau, and Doug (Diane) Betts of Montana; four grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers and sisters, Edward Betts, Alex Betts, Kathy Betts, and Alice Zimmerman.A memorial gathering will take place at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 28, 2017, at Helke Funeral Home, 302 Spruce St., Wausau, followed by a service at 5:00 p.m.You may sign the family guestbook at www.helke.com.