Obituary of Elizabeth "Betty" Vaught Baasch

On Sunday, December 6, 2015, Elizabeth A. “BETTY VAUGHT” Baasch, a visionary leader in the mental health profession, left us to rejoin her beloved brothers Jack and William Fowler. Betty lived a life dedicated to helping those who needed some extra attention and special caring. Betty’s inspiration was her brother, Jack, who also lived a life dedicated to helping others. She received her degree in Occupational Therapy from Columbia University and worked in Detroit and St. Louis, before coming to Central New York. For over 30 years, Betty had worked at ARC/Oswego Industries and retired in 1999 as the Executive Director. The New York State Legislature honored her with a Resolution upon her retirement recognizing her “keen sense of duty and always showing a unique grasp of human problems.” As a strongly dedicated and tireless advocate, Betty always strived to find opportunities and new approaches to the many challenges she accepted throughout her 40 year career. Her progressive and dynamic leadership allowed her to serve on the boards of Oswego County Opportunities, Inc; Board of Visitors; Syracuse Developmental Center; Operation Oswego County; Workforce Development; Oswego County MT/MH Planning Subcommittee; Family Services Task Force and the Oswego Hospital Development Council Business Committee. In 1997, the New York State Rehabilitation Association (NYSRA) awarded her the Adrian Levy Award, for her “ability to see changes as opportunity and turn potential into success for people with disabilities.” Fulton Rotary Club, the New York State Association of Rehabilitation Facilities, and Oswego County Health Systems Council have also recognized Betty’s dedication and unwavering desire to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities. Betty’s devotion to her profession was only equaled by her love for her family. Betty grew up with 2 brothers whom she remained very close to her entire life. Betty’s face would always brighten when she spoke of Jack and her spirits were always lifted by her brother Bill and her “Canadian” family. A sparkle was in Betty’s eyes the day before she died when her “Canadian” family spent the day with her at the Syracuse Home in Baldwinsville. All of Betty’s family wishes to thank the staff and nurses at the Syracuse Home for their dedication to all the residents and the care she received. Betty shared her journey through life with her husband Klaus Baasch. Their home and gardens in Baldwinsville were their place to escape to. Her family stretched across the border into Canada with her sister-in-law, Bette Fowler; nieces: Dr. Nancy (Mike Brown) Fowler, Susan (Andrew) Fowler McPherson; nephew Gregory (Pamela) Fowler; 2 great nieces; 5 great nephews and 1 great-great grandniece Posey. For 28 years Betty fulfilled the role of “wicked” step-mother to Klaus’ children: Tina (Chris) Shepardson, Tommy Baasch, Christine (John) Bauersfeld; and their children Payton, Lydia, and Elana. A service of celebration with be held on Saturday, December 12 at 2:30pm in the Fulton First United Methodist Church, 1408 State Route 176, Fulton 13069. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions maybe made to the camp her brother Jack established for children with special needs, the Fowler Center, 2315 Harmon Lake Road, Mayville, MI 48744-9737.