Betty Van Harte

Betty was born on August 3, 1932 in Denver, Colorado to Victor Gardino and Ruth Breuch. She grew up in Denver and attended Barnum School and West High School.

Betty’s husband, Harry, was stationed at Lowry Air Force Base in Denver. She was working at Walgreens in downtown Denver. One night, he happened to come in to eat. Because she hadn’t made enough tip money for cab fare, he nicely offered to drive her home. It was love at first sight! They married in 1949 and remained married for 63 years.

Betty was a stay-at-home mom before eventually serving her beloved town of Mountain View, first as a councilwoman then later elected as mayor, a job which she proudly held for 20 years. She accomplished many projects as well as helping many town residents.

Betty was an outgoing, fun-loving and compassionate individual who was dedicated to giving of her time and talents in countless number of ways. Her sense of humor was contagious and her card playing skills were sometimes questionable! She went by many names: Mom, Grandma Betty, Dinosaur Betty, Mayor Betty, the Queen and Dear Friend.

Betty was mother to Carol Martelli, Wendy Boone (Joe), James (Sheri) Van Harte; Betty was like a mother to Tia Brayman; grandma to Michael Martelli, Michelle Martelli, Jeremy Boone, Heather Ruddell (Brian), Shannon Strelow, Lynsey Wilson, and Mark Henneck (Kim); Great-grandma to Nona, Ashlynn, Nick, Michael Jr, Jaeda and Chloe; sister of John Gardino, Victor Gardino (Georgann); she also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held at Olinger Crown Hill, W 29th & Wadsworth on Monday February 13 at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Community Table (formerly Arvada Food Bank)