Betty passed away peacefully on Friday, June 12, at the Pikes Peak Care Center, Colorado Springs, after valiantly enduring dementia for 10 years. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dean Conrad; grandson, Brian Michael Conrad, her parents, Hardy and Opal Hale; and her brother, Jim Hale.
She is survived by her daughter, Nancy Hewitt of North Carolina; sons, Bill (Yevonne) and Rusty (Anna) of Colorado Springs; grandchildren, James (Jada), Kristen, and Spenser Hewitt of North Carolina; 6 great grandchildren; sister, Dena Zant (Joe Don) of Texas; and numerous nieces, nephews, and family members.
Betty met Dean when he was stationed at Webb Air Force Base in Big Springs, Texas. They married on February 7, 1953 and shared adventures together as they traveled throughout the United States and across the world in the military from California, Oregon, Missouri, Japan, Colorado Springs, Greece, and back to Colorado Springs in 1973. Betty supported her husband throughout their service with love and joy, welcoming everyone into their home. Her smile and fun-loving personality would always light up a room.
When working outside the home, Betty worked as a Trust Officer at the Central Bank and the First National Bank for a number of years. In 1985, Betty and Dean retired to Lake of the Ozarks, MO., where they owned and operated an office and art supply shop. Betty managed painting classes, other crafting classes, and became proficient in framing. In 1989, the couple returned to Colorado Springs to be closer to family.
Betty’s hospitality, generosity and joyful spirit will be missed by all of those who knew her. She loved her family with her whole heart and was the best Mema ever to her grandchildren and many others.
Betty was a member of the Church of Christ and served in various positions for over 70 years. She was always faithful to her Lord and Church wherever she was in the world. She enjoyed many hobbies, including reading, puzzles, many varieties of needlework, and Elvis music and movies. We know she is now with God and those she loved.
Due to the uncertain circumstances of this time, there will be a private inurnment for the family at Shrine of Remembrance in Colorado Springs. A memorial service will be held at a later date. The family appreciates cards, notes of encouragement, and shared memories.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the: Brian Conrad Memorial Library, Fountain/Ft. Carson School District 8, 10665 Jimmy Camp Rd., Fountain, CO 80817, or to the foundation/charity of your choice.
James Hewitt
17 Jun 2020Mema,
Not many days go by I don’t think about you and Papa. Knowing you are once again together makes it a little easier. I love you and I miss you. Until….
Joe and Sheryl Pyle
17 Jun 2020We loved Betty and have such special memories of lunches after church with lots of laughter. She brightened the world with her love and beautiful smile. She is with her sweet Dean and Brian again. We feel very Blessed to have known her. Sending our love and condolences to you all.
Royce Henderson
18 Jun 2020So sorry for your loss. 2020 has not been a kind year so far.
Phil Doss Barbarick
20 Jun 2020Betty loved me like I was one of her own children. Which I really kinda was, when one considers the time I spent with Rusty in their home. She knew how to love, discipline and feed teenage boys. The mountainous piles of homemade chicken fried steaks and mashed potatoes she served were as good as they were big! I have thought of her and Deano often throughout my adult life, and that will continue until I see them again. They helped mold me into the man I am today, for which I will forever love them. God bless you Mama Betty.
Rusty Conrad
25 Jun 2020My brother from another Betty, thanks. Hope all is well with you, and happy birthday! Welcome to the 60’s. Contact me some time.
Rustycon78@gmail.com.
Patty choate
20 Jun 2020So sorry to hear of Aunt Betty passing, I have thought of her and Uncle Dean often, would really love to touch base with all of my cousins. Please look me up on Facebook, email me pattychoate1@gmail.com, please take care of each other in the days to come.
Love you all
Patty