She was born June 4, 1926 in Moberly, Missouri, to Alfred and Edna Schroder. She was the eldest of two children.
She graduated in 1944 from Cheney High School in Cheney, Washington. Betty married Howard Truman Chase, a handsome young Naval aviator, on July 23, 1945. They were to enjoy nearly 50 years of marriage until his passing and together they had two daughters.
Betty loved Navy life. She enjoyed the experiences of moving from base to base, especially Hawaii after the war, and being blessed with making so many lifelong friends along the way.
She enjoyed traveling to see friends and family, as well as favorite destinations such as the Oregon Coast, Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas.
Betty held various positions throughout her life, from Executive Assistant at a radio station in Spokane, Washington to various bookkeeping and office management jobs. Her true passion, however, was real estate. When her husband retired in 1969, she returned to school and became a residential real estate broker. She loved her work and her high energy; sharp mind, amazing memory and outgoing nature made her a perfect fit for her chosen profession of nearly 20 years.
Betty was a very vibrant and active person. She had many interests. She spent much of her time in her early years performing in her school bands. She played both the cello and the drums. As she loved music she also loved to dance. She was an avid reader and often read two books a week. She worked the New York Times Crossword Puzzle each day until diminishing sight prevented it in her later years.
Betty loved to work in her garden; weeding and planting and watching things grow. She channeled that interest and energy into her membership in the Carlton Park Garden Club. Over 44 years she occupied various positions that included President and Treasurer. She spoke often of the wonderful memories of the many activities, luncheons and district competitions she participated in, as well as the many friendships with fellow club members she cherished.
Betty was a 12-year breast cancer survivor, yet other health concerns and a stroke in 2015 prompted her move to Southern California to be near her daughter, Lynda. Although she missed her friends and home of nearly 55 years, she adapted well to her new life and friends at a retirement community in Rancho Cucamonga and was at last able to participate and enjoy in celebrations with family, including her youngest grandson’s wedding, and in welcoming the arrival of her two great-grandchildren.
Betty will be remembered for her vibrant, outgoing nature, her sharp mind and amazing memory, and her courage and strength through many of life’s adversities and challenges. Perhaps, most important, she will be remembered for her love for her family and friends, her laughter, and her radiant smile.
Betty is survived by her daughters, Carol (Larry), and Lynda (Greg); four grandchildren; Kelly (Mendy), Rick (Janice), Ryan (Andrea) and Matthew (Taryn); three great-grandchildren; Shane, Tristan, and Grant; and her nieces and nephews.
Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Howard, her parents, and her brother, Daniel.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, June 26, 2019 at 11 a.m. at Evergreen Washelli Chapel, 11111 Aurora Avenue North, Seattle, Washington.
Reception immediately following services.
Private inurnment at Washelli Columbarium.
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