Elizabeth Gunnarsson

Elizabeth “Betty” Gunnarsson

Elizabeth “Betty” Gunnarsson, 83, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2026, in Sun City West, Arizona.

Betty was born Elizabeth Szymanski in Brooklyn, New York, on September 11, 1942, to Stanley and Charlotte Szymanski. She was the eldest of five children.

Betty met Donald Gunnarsson, and the two fell deeply in love. They were married on May 25, 1961, beginning a life together filled with love, family, and treasured friends. Together, they had four children and built their early family life in Farmingville, New York. Don always called her his “Beautiful Betty.”

In 1975, Betty and Don made a bold move, they took the infamous flight to Lake Havasu City, Arizona, purchased a home and began a new chapter. What began as an adventure became a life filled with family, friendships, and memories that would span the next 50 years.

Betty was a hard worker and a firm, devoted mother. She gave her family structure and guidance, but she also knew how to have fun and make life memorable. Her work at a veterinary clinic as a receptionist, surgical assistant and pet rescuer brought another unexpected kind of joy into the Gunnarsson family. Through the clinic, the family grew by paws and a few more personalities. They welcomed 2 dogs and 2 cats who quickly became cherished members of the family.

Betty, ever the New Yorker, found ways to connect with fellow New Yorkers and those friends built a circle of many dear and lasting relationships. Her and her friends formed a weekend club they would name, The P.O.E.T.S (Piss On Everything Today’s Saturday). The club was an important part of her life, sharing laughter, and countless memories. Those friendships became part of the extended family she treasured so deeply.

Betty found a special joy performing in dinner theater with her husband and newest friends. She would practice her lines at home with her family, turning the living room into her own rehearsal stage. Her family watched her step into the spotlight and share the talent, humor, and enthusiasm she brought to everything she did.

Betty later served as a court clerk at the City Municipal Court dedicating herself to her work and to serving her community. After retiring from the city in 2005, Betty had more time which she devoted to the people and causes closest to her heart. She became more involved with Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church and cherished the opportunity to spend more time with her mother, Charlotte, and her grandchildren.

Her faith was an important part of Betty’s life. Whenever she had the opportunity, she volunteered at the church soup kitchen, giving her time to help others and serve her community.

Betty is survived by her brother, Pete (Pat) Ebbitt; her sister, Charlotte Arminante; her sons, Robert (Erin) Gunnarsson and Gary (Carolee) Gunnarsson; grandsons Kurt (Danielle) Newton, Kevin (Stacie) Newton, Kreig (Laura) Newton, her daughters, Claire (Dave) Ehrman and Denise Gunnarsson; her granddaughter, Jamie (Zach) Jones; her grandson, Ryan (Chloe) Long; and her granddaughter, Olivia Long. She is also survived by 7 great-grandchildren, who brought her great joy and pride.

Betty’s life was defined by family, friendship, faith, hard work, laughter, and love. She created a home filled with people, pets, stories, and memories, and she touched the lives of so many through her family, her work, her church, and her friendships. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the friends she held dear, and the countless lives she touched along the way.

Services will be held at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church on September 19th 2026. Rosary to be said at 9:30 am, services at 10 am and a celebration of life to follow at the church campus in St. Joeseph’s Hall.