Billie Jean Altvater, 78, died April 7, 2010 at Hospice House, Hutchinson. She was born Nov. 1, 1931 in Haven to Edwin Albert and Geneva Kathrine Hauser Geffert. She graduated from Haven High School in 1950.

A resident of Hutchinson since 1978, she was a homemaker. Billie Jean was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church.

On Aug. 22, 1948 she married Elward N. Altvater at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Haven. He survives. Other survivors include, son: Kim N. Altvater and wife Mary Ann, Hutchinson; daughter, Kathy Jean Wyer and husband Kenneth, Buhler; mother, Geneva Geffert, Lyons; 5 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her father.

Funeral will be 10:30 Tues., April 13, 2010 at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church with Rev. Thomas B. Mendenhall presiding. Burial will be in Laurel Cemetery, Haven. Visitation will be 9-9 Sunday and Monday at Elliott Mortuary. Memorials may be made to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church or Hospice of Reno County in care of the mortuary. Please visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave condolences for Billie Jean's family.