Betty Belle West

Betty Belle West (Bennett) Feb. 16, 1921 – Jan. 19, 2016. Born on February 16, 1921 in Walla Walla, Washington, Betty was proud to call Portland, Oregon her home for over 70 years. In addition to her four children (Don Nelson, Toni Merrill, Pat Smith, Tami Barnard), Betty’s love lives on through her ten grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, and an even grander circle of cherished family and friends. Over the years, Betty made friends everywhere she went, and shared a truly special bond with Doris Poindexter, Joyce Hammer, Dorothy Praegner, Ruth Waddell and Shirley Brucker. She also had many animal companions throughout her life, her most precious a white poodle named Mandy that she took with her everywhere. Whether gardening, playing games, or traveling, Betty was always sporting her winning sense of humor and a great pair of shoes. Into her 90s, she still dreamed of wearing high heels, sipping scotch (her drink of choice) and visiting Las Vegas. Betty found beauty in everything, and was especially in awe of clouds and flowers (violets, orchids and tulips). Her favorite holiday was Christmas, an occasion which she always made special for her family by decorating to the nines and making sure everyone had plenty of gifts on Christmas Eve. Betty will be forever adored for her fun-loving spirit, loyalty and unconditional love. After a beautiful life of 94 years, she will be reunited with her mother Lavonne Bennett, who passed away when Betty was six-years-old. Her ashes will be placed at her mother’s grave, as well as spread into the Clackamas River near her favorite home in Carver, Oregon. A celebration of Betty’s life will be held at The Heathman Hotel in downtown Portland on February 20, 2016 from 3-5:30pm.