grandpa

We got word on Wednesday night that my grandpa had passed away. This is the second grandparent that has died this year. He had been in the hospital for a week or 2 with a lot of health problems. We knew that it was a possibility, but it was still really sad for our family to hear of his passing. My aunt sent my dad his obituary, so I wanted to post it, mainly for myself. I also found a few photos of my grandpa.

Delton Jay Bettridge, 80, passed away on November 26, 2008 in St. George, UT. He was born on October 21, 1928, the only child to Joseph and Ella Bettridge in Cedar City, UT. He had a wonderful childhood growing up in Caliente, NV. He was married to Jean Bauer on September 29, 1950 in Portland, OR. They were blessed with 3 sons and 2 daughters.

Grandma and Grandpa (and me) on my blessing day

Delton served his country in the Utah National Guard with the 213th armored field artillery unit from Cedar City, UT during the Korean war. He was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints where he served faithfully in many church positions. He had a great love for the Lord, his family, and especially his wife.

At my wedding- December 27, 2003

He attended college at the Branch Agricultural College, now Southern Utah University, in Cedar City, UT receiving his Bachelors degree in Education. He then attended the University of Utah where he graduated with a secondary degree in Education and a Masters degree in Music. He had a great love for music, which he pursued during his youth and his teaching career. He taught instrumental music for 19 years in the Salt Lake School District at the Elementary, Jr. High, and High School levels. He later went into business with his close friend, M. Brent Leishman, and built a successful custom machine shop. He retired in 1994. Delton enjoyed life to the fullest. He loved the mountains where he spent many summers with his parents, grandparents, and friends at Woods Ranch. He had a very active life with his children, business acquaintances, and friends. Delton was known as an honorable and honest man. He always greeted everyone with his warm smile and quick wit. He delighted in his family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was a hardworking, dedicated, and loyal man. He will be greatly missed by his family, many friends, and neighbors.

Delton is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 58 years, Jean, and 5 children: Kendall (Diane) of Maryland; Terry (Patrice) of Salt Lake City; Kelly of Centerville; Torrie Curtis (John) of South Jordan; Lynette Muir (Lynn) of South Jordan; 12 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his parents.

4 generations of Bettridge's - November 2005

Special thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Dixie Regional Medical Center for the exceptional care they provided for the past 2 weeks.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 2, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at the Buena Vista Stake House located on 860 N. Fairway Dr in Washington, UT. Viewing will be held on Monday evening from 6-8 p.m. at the Spilsbury Mortuary located on 110 S. Bluff St. in St. George, UT and Tuesday morning one hour prior to services. Interment will be at the Cedar City Cemetery.

online obituary