Betty Darlene Hovious, 87, of Belle Plaine, IA passed away January 7, 2024 at Belle Plaine Specialty Care, Belle Plaine.

Betty was born July 29, 1936 to Leonard and Mary (Clark) Ellis in Overland Park, KS. She graduated High School in Kansas and received a photography degree in  California. Betty worked in California as a waitress, owned a photography studio and drew character portraits for Disneyland. In the early 1970's, Betty married Barry Raymond Hovious in California. In 1979 the couple moved to Belle Plaine where they raised their children and Betty worked as a waitress.

Betty loved to read, many times reading a book a day. She also enjoyed bingo; traveling to legions halls with her children to play. Betty was a very talented artist; which she was able to continue during her time at the care center, making many birthday cards and posters to share. She liked spending time with her dog and was thankful for the time with granddaughter, Brittny whom she lived with prior to the care center.

Betty was selfless and gave all that she could to her friends and family. She was empathetic and truly cared about what was best for others.

She is survived by her children, Brenda (Steve) Gaede of KS, Tricia (Brendan) Jones of Belle Plaine, Phyllis (John Bordwell) Hovious of Marengo, and Barry (Dwana) Hovious Jr. of MI; grandchildren, Ben Gaede, Logan Phillippe, Nicholaa Phillippe, Brenna Mercer, Brittny Goers, Kalli and Kobe Grieder, Kurt Gagel, and Candice (Greg) Helstrom; 4 great-grandchildren; siblings, Nancy Gifford, and Barbara Mettlen both of KS.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Barry; children, Dale Gagel, Cindy Criswell; grandson, Patrick Criswell; siblings, Leonard, Jo, and Shirley Ellis.

Private family services will be held. Memorials may be directed to the family. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.neuhausfuneralservice.com.