In Memory of Betty J. Petersen

Betty J. Petersen, age 90, of Battle Creek, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, January 18, 2022, at the Willow Dale Wellness Village of Battle Creek, Iowa.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 25, 2022, at the St. John’s Lutheran Church of Battle Creek, Iowa. Rev. Randy D. Cormeny will officiate. A Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., on Monday, January 24, 2022, at the St. John’s Lutheran Church of Battle Creek, Iowa. Private family committal services will be held in the Morgan Township Cemetery of Schleswig, Iowa.

The Christensen-Van Houten Funeral Home of Battle Creek, Iowa, is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.christensenvanhouten.com

Betty Jane Petersen, the daughter of Alfred and Alice (Kouiker) Vande Stouwe, was born on August 15, 1931, on a farm near George, Iowa. She grew up in Hull, Iowa, received her education and obtained her GED while caring for her ill mother.

On August 15, 1949, Betty was united in marriage to Vernus “Pete” Petersen. To this union three children were born: Bruce, Marsha and Melinda. The family lived across the state of Kansas before relocating to Battle Creek, Iowa, in 1957.

Betty started working as a CNA at the Hartley Memorial Hospital in Battle Creek and in 1980 graduated technical college as a Licensed Practical Nurse. She then started her nursing career at Willow Dale Care Center of Battle Creek. She was employed there until her retirement.

Betty enjoyed traveling with her sisters, gardening, and crocheting. She was a faithful member of the St. John’s Lutheran Church of Battle Creek where she volunteered and held numerous offices. Betty also belonged to the local Battle Creek card club, BC Women’s Club, Ladies Legion Auxiliary, and was a community volunteer.

Survivors include children: Bruce (Johnadean) Petersen, Marsha (Bruce Benett) Petersen-Benett and Melinda (Earl May) Petersen; grandchildren Katie (Justin) Bringewatt, Lindsey (Robert) Lydic and Nick (Ambur) Petersen; great-grandchildren Hannah, Brenden, Abby, Gunner, Braylee, Jake, Tenley, Lennon, Josyah and Landon; nieces, nephews, extended family.

She was preceded in death by her parents Alfred and Alice Vande Stouwe; her husband Vernus “Pete” Petersen; sisters Beulah Witte and Myona Heerde; brothers Freeman, Vernon and Robert Vande Stouwe.