Bettylou Burgett passed away peacefully at her home in Port Townsend, Washington surrounded by family on Feb. 25, 2022.
Born on Aug. 22, 1928, in Moore, Montana to Willis and Anna (Tong) Ocker, Bettylou was the eldest of five children; Calvin, Wilma (Moses), Gary, and Arliss (Engstrom). Memories of those formative years raised on the family farm during the height of the Great Depression were recounted in a biography she later wrote to her grandchildren, with yearly additions, including precious drawings that showcased her artistic talent. Her pride and love for her family are reflected in the number of descendants who have artistic gifts.
In 1948 Bettylou Ocker married Earl Truman Burgett, her lifelong partner of 67 years, in Scobey, Mont. They left their family homesteads to relocate to Washington state for Earl’s new teaching position. As their family grew they moved to the Seattle area, where Bettylou managed to care for six children while taking art classes and singing with the “Sweet Adelines.” Harmonizing together on family road trips created a strong bond through music that has continued at gatherings to this day. Bettylou’s love of great ethnic food inspired many trips to the Pike Place Market for a specialty spice or cut of fish to prepare for dinner guests. In her 40s, Bettylou began her career as a special needs teacher’s aide, proudly winning peer support as the union representative for the ParaProfessional Association. Her commitment to her students demonstrated a lifelong belief in tolerance and celebrating one’s differences.
Bettylou blossomed into an independent, critical thinker as she and Earl started life as empty nesters. After retirement they traveled extensively, from Europe, South America, Africa to Asia, continuing each year to push their boundaries. In 1988 they moved to the Olympic Peninsula, starting their next chapter on Marrowstone Island, Wash. Bettylou made friends quickly through the Garden Club, artists’ groups, PT Film Festival, and Exercise for Health, She stood weekly on Water Street with the Women in Black silently protesting the Iraqi war. Bettylou and Earl’s move into Port Townsend strengthened their involvement in the Olympic Peninsula Democratic’s Club and Quimper Unitarian church. Their August “Oyster Bashes” were legendary, drawing a diverse collection of friends and family from near and far. For all that knew her, as a new acquaintance or childhood friend, her natural ability to connect with others in a meaningful way is her legacy. She made all around her feel seen and heard — an essential part of her spirit until her last breath.
Bettylou is survived by her sisters. Wilma and Arliss; her children, Melanie, Buzz, Jon, William, Nora; 17 grandchildren; and 12 “greats.” She was preceded in passing by her husband, Earl; brothers, Calvin and Gary; and eldest daughter Kathleen. Over the years our family has been assisted many times by the expert hands at Jefferson Healthcare Home Health and Hospice. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Hospice Organization in your community.
From noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 23, a Celebration of Life potluck will be held at Bettylou’s home, 607 V St., Port Townsend.
