Betty Lou (Bickford) Christianson
Betty passed in the early morning of Jan.20 at the Masonic Home a couple of weeks before her 90th birthday. She was born Feb. 8th, 1926 to parents Warren and Charity Bickford. As a child she lived on family property near Nelson and later in Helena to begin high school. They moved to Holden, WA and after finishing high school she attended and graduated from the Army Cadet Nursing Program at Providence School of Nursing in Seattle.
World War II brought many returning servicemen to the hospital where she was training. One of them was a young man she had known earlier in York where he had been an underground miner along with her father and uncles. He was Clinton Christianson. After his release from the hospital and her graduation they returned to the Helena area and married at St. John’s Lutheran Church on Aug. 15, 1948. They had 6 children: Cecilia, Carl, Karen, Carol, Bob and Bill. She was an “old school” parent raising her children with traditional family and moral values and good work ethics all the while ensuring they enjoyed life and the great outdoors. The property near Nelson where she spent her childhood was the focal point of family activities.
She enjoyed the outdoors, camping, fishing, hiking, rock hounding, firewood cutting, gardening, jeep rides and picnics. She volunteered with York community activities, church and scouts activities and much more. Betty and Clinton were beautiful while dancing a waltz or schotish.
She had a remarkable 40 year career as a RN. She first worked at St. Johns Hospital then for years at Shodair Crippled Childrens Hospital and finally as an office and surgery nurse for Dr. Amiccuci.
Betty and Clinton retired in 1986 to the property at Nelson which they called Valhalla. They took this time to travel including to Hawaii, Alaska and Norway.
Betty is preceded in death by her parents, brother Don, husband Clinton, children Cecilia and Carl, grandson Mike. Surviving Betty are daughters Karen Kmet, Carol (John) Skufca; sons, Bob (Vickie) Christianson and Bill Christianson. Surviving nephews Randy (Jane) Pursley, Ron (Nanette) Pursley and niece Rhonda Pursley were also “her family”. There are many more nieces and nephews, 9 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.
The family expresses gratitude to Drs. Paustian and Wampler and everyone at the Masonic Home and Frontier Hospice. Cremation has taken place. As per Betty’s wishes no services will be held.
St. John’s Lutheran Church was an important part of Betty’s life. The family suggests anyone wishing to make a charitable donation in Betty’s memory can do so to St. John’s Lutheran Church, 1000 Helena Ave., Helena, MT. 59601, or to a charity of your choosing.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Lisa Murphy (DeFord) says
I have happy memories of spending time at the Christianson cabin. The Christiansons were friends of my parents when Betty and my mom worked together at Shodair. It seemed there were always lots of people there and Betty always made sure I got to ride a horse while we were there; my favorite thing of all. She always seemed like a strong, happy, no nonsense woman – a part of my cherished childhood memories. My thoughts and prayers are with Betty’s family during this time of loss.
Val Flansaas says
Karen, so sorry for the loss of your mom. Draw on your memories to get you through this tough time. Holding you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Bev and Don OPITZ says
I knew Betty as I also worked at shodair hospital. My husband ,Don use to babysit for them, we always stopped to see her when we visited other friends at the Masonic home, She always was pleasant and happy to visit, Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the family, she will be missed but not forgotten,
Elaine Cooper Power says
Karen & Family, I was so sorry to read of your mother’s passing. She was such a friendly and up-beat lady. I truly enjoyed knowing her through the York ladies’ luncheons. I know you will miss her terribly. May God comfort you and give you peace.
Joanie Werner Mathis says
Dear Karen and family, What an honor for you all to have had such wonderful parents. Real examples of righteousness in our community and York. It was an honor to know them. Your dad used to come to CONEY ISLAND FOR A FREE CUP OF COFFEE every time he filled his prescription at the VA. Your mom had the sweetest spirit of the Lord and she made everyone feel so special. Truly HEAVENS gain! Be at peace Christainson family
Mark Ryckman says
Betty will always be a part of Nelson. I’ll hold memories of her in my heart forever. She was always so kind and generous to my family and I. Gods servant has come home! RIP friend.
Greg and Anthea says
Happy memories of visiting Betty and Karen when we were over in Helena.
Picking flowers, eating wild raspberries, having a picnic and just chatting with Betty, Karen and her brother in the foothills was a wonderful day
Our thoughts are with you ALL
Lois DeFord says
So many memories of being with your family. Not only did Betty make sure that Lisa had a horse ride but she always had a wonderful meal prepared. The cabin was like an Oasis on a hot summer day. Our family would jump into thew car and drive to Nelson where the temperature would be 10-15 degrees cooler. My prayers are with all of you family members.
John and Betty Brewer says
I am so sorry to hear of Betty’s passing. She lived next duke to my mother Virginia Russell and we always loved her so much. She was always smiling and such a joy to be around. She always stopped at my Moms table to see how she was doing. Now my Mom and her are catching up in heaven. I pray that God grant you and your family peace and comfort. She will always be with you and will always have they beautiful smile on her face. Love to you all. Betty Brewer and my late mother Virginia Russell
Marilyn Yetter Olson says
I have many fun and special memories of your and family from York and family gatherings. Prayers are with you all during this time.
John and Rita Naylor says
Dear Karen, Carol, Bill and family – we’re so sorry to hear about your mom’s passing. We remember her fondly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.