Bette O'Connor

            Bette “Boop” O’Connor recently died peacefully at her home in Saegertown, PA at the age of 69.  Bette was born on April 10, 1947 in Pittsburgh, PA to Robert E. Schroeder and Helen Bell Drouet. She attended North Hills High School in Ross Township.             Bette is survived by her husband, Mike O’Connor, and a daughter, Kristy Allen, both of Saegertown, PA.  She had four grandchildren—Rory, Rachel, Ryan and Renee.  She was also survived by her sister, Barbara Stamp of Salem, OH. She was preceded in death by her first husband, John Allen; and her son John(ny) Allen.              Upon moving to Saegertown, PA, Bette began working for Allegheny College as a secretary.  However, working behind a desk did not suit her and she quickly became known for her smile-evoking serving skills at two local Meadville restaurants—Carini’s and Valenza’s. Bette Boop was a well-known and liked waitress that had the unique talent of making a friend of everyone; she was especially skilled at lifting the spirits of those in her presence due to her exceptional listening skills and heart-forward nature.             She was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan, loved blooming flowers in her yard, and had impressive skills in the kitchen. Bette’s family remembers her as a happy and energetic individual who always encouraged others to look at the positive side of things. She was full of humor, a bright soul and had a unique ability to make others’ feel like they were at home around her. She was an active and involved member of her community and could often be found in the evenings at the American Legion laughing and eating with her friends.             A remembrance service will be held on April 10, 2017 at the Trinity Lutheran Church at 649 Park Avenue in Meadville, PA at 2 PM; a Celebration of Life gathering will follow at the American Legion Post 205 in Saegertown, PA.   All are welcome and encouraged to attend the service and the subsequent gathering to celebrate Bette’s life, please bring photos and stories to share with others. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the American Legion Post 205 at 755 South St, Saegertown, PA 16433. Condolences can be posted to  https://www.facebook.com/groups/679975712174904/.             Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hatheway-Tedesco Funeral Home & Crematory, 614 Baldwin Street, Meadville, PA 16335.