Betty Jean Engel (Cook)

Betty Engel passed away at age 85 on February 13, 2013 in Tacoma. She was born July 12, 1927 in Tacoma to William and Katharine Cook. She attended Lincoln High School, followed by beauty school. She married Herbert Engel on March 15, 1947 at Hope Lutheran Church in Tacoma. Betty was preceded in death by her husband Herb in 1994. She is survived by her three daughters and their husbands: Carol (Gary) Richey, Christine (Von) Steinhilb, and Cheri (Bob) Dufault; seven grandsons, Jeff and Jason Richey, Eric and Micah Steinhilb, and Rory, Kyle and Aaron Dufault; eight great-grandchildren; and brother-in-law Roy (Catherine) Engel. Betty lived for her family and church.

She loved unconditionally and always put her family before herself. She was a wonderful example of the best wife, mother, and grandmother, and leaves us with only warm memories. She took care of so many family and friends over the years, and then we took care of her. One of Betty's special collections was of angels. "Engel" means "angel" in German, and Betty collected angels for many years. Of course, she is the best angel of them all. Special thanks to caregivers at Kings Manor and Pioneer Place, and especially to Erin with Franciscan Hospice.

Memorial donations are suggested to Hope Lutheran Church. A memorial service will be held at 4:00 PM on Saturday, February 23, 2013 in the Mountain View Garden Chapel.

We little knew that morning God was going to call your name; In life we loved you dearly, In death we do the same. It broke our hearts to lose you, You did not go alone, For part of us went with you, The day God called you home. You left us beautiful memories, Your love is still our guide, And though we cannot see you, You are always by our side. Our family chain is broken, And nothing seems the same. But as God calls us one by one, The chain will link again.


Arrangements by Mountain View Funeral Home.