Bettie Marie Greytak died peacefully in her sleep in Helena, MT on August 31, 2021. She suffered from Alzheimer’s disease. Bettie was born in Somers, Montana on July 10, 1941. At a very early age her family moved to Great Falls where she grew up. She graduated from Great Falls High School and was a graduate of the Great Falls Commercial College. Afterwards, she was employed by Great Falls Federal Savings and Loan as a teller and later promoted to Assistant Secretary Treasurer. She married James Greytak on April 6, 1963 in Great Falls and the family was increased by a daughter, Karen, in 1967 and a son, Chris, in 1969.
Bettie was always the popular mom; making cookies, offering a kind smile, and listening to anyone who wanted to talk. She volunteered at her children’s schools, helped with homework, and offered words of encouragement on the hard days. She was devoted to her church, working and volunteering at Helena Nazarene church for many years, including assuming rolls as Board Secretary, Sunday School Teacher and Vacation Bible School Teacher. She was a talented craftsperson and created many beautiful and intricate items for her friends and family. In addition to knitting, crocheting and cross-stitching, she also excelled at paper quilling; selling her artwork at a local bird store. She also worked with a group at her church making quilts for local charities. Bettie was an avid Master Gardener and birder whose flower garden was the envy of many.
Bettie and her husband traveled the world, visiting Alaska, Hawaii, many of the Caribbean Islands, the Panama Canal, China, Europe, Russia, South America, Mexico, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Bali and Australia.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy Nelson and Ada Weaver; her son, Chris; brothers, Bob (Edie), Bill (Eva) and sisters, Jeanie Weaver and Thema Bibbee.
She is survived by her husband of 58 years, James “Jim” Greytak; her daughter, Karen Greytak of Bellevue, WA and a sister, Lois Adolf (Jerry) of Klamath Falls, OR; along with numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces, and nephews and great grandnieces.
A memorial service celebrating Bettie’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, September 24th at Helena Nazarene Church, 117 Valley Drive. A reception will follow the service in the fellowship hall of the church. Burial will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, September 25th at Highland Cemetery in Great Falls. In lieu of flowers, donations many be directed to the Helena Nazarene Church, 117 Valley Drive, Helena, MT 59601.
Pearle and Arlyn Plowman says
We extend our sincere condolences to Jim, Karen and other members of Karen’s family.
Bettie was a long time friend and we had some great times together. Her optimistic and cheerful attitude was a real blessing. She was a humble servant of her Lord and savior, and is now rejoicing in His presence.
Kathy Klutsch says
My heart goes out to Jim, Karen and extended family. Heaven received a true Angel. God needed one more Angel to fill his heavenly band, so he came down to earth and took Betties hand. Best Sunday School Teacher to Brittney Nd a dear friend to me. Love always. Kathy Klutsch
Lois Adolf says
I was truly blessed to have Bettie as my sister. She was always there to lend a helping hand for anyone, a true Christian in every sense of the word. I am remembering her as a sweet child because she was my little sister, and all the years since, as she raised her beloved children, and all the help she was to me as I was raising my children. We will always love her and know that she is rejoicing in God’s Holy Kingdom!
Helen Robertson says
I am so sorry to read about Bettie. I just wanted to tell you that Jay passed away from COVID/pneumonia on August 12th. He put up a good fight being in the hospital for five weeks. His funeral is being livestreamed tomorrow at 2pm on vimeo.com/westsidemethodistchurch.
Harold owens says
Hey family of betty so sorry to hear about a wonderful faithful mother and grandma go so soon I saw her every time on Sunday and special accations I am sending my thoughts and prayers your way may the Lord bless you and the family through this tough time your friend Mr harold owens
Brenda says
I loved Betty. I met her when I attended the nazarene church.