Betty Louise Van der Vlugt

Betty Louise Van der Vlugt, beloved wife, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away on December 18, 2023, at her home in Rocklin, California. She was born on March 16, 1930, in Kalispell, Montana, to Richard and Louise Knapp.

Betty's early career in the medical field was marked by dedication and compassion. She worked at Loma Linda Medical Center and Portland Adventist Medical Center and while in Portland she helped with the Visiting Nurses some. Her outstanding performance led her to be awarded the prestigious Hill-Burton Scholarship which enabled her to complete her Masters in Education with full pay.

Later on, Betty served as the Assistant Director of Nurses at Paradise Valley Hospital in National City, California. Her commitment to excellence and quality patient care made a significant impact during her tenure. Betty's vast experience and expertise also led her to join the Adventist Health Corporate Office in Roseville as a nurse consultant and recruiter. She dedicated many years to this role, providing valuable insights and support to countless healthcare professionals. Her contributions were valued immensely, and she garnered respect for her exceptional leadership skills. Her unwavering commitment to community service within the Seventh-day Adventist Church was apparent.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Betty had a zest for life that was truly inspiring. A lifelong avid reader since childhood, she found solace and joy in literature. Betty had a deep love for nature and animals and enjoyed traveling to explore different landscapes, wildlife and cultures. She cherished spending time with her family and found great delight in playing games (especially Flinch and dominos) with them. Her infectious laughter filled every room she entered.

Known for her dependability and wit, Betty was loved by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She approached life with kindness and wisdom, always offering support to those in need. Her keen sense of humor brought joy to many and created lasting memories. Betty was a pillar of strength and love to her family, providing unwavering care and devotion throughout her life.

To celebrate the remarkable life of Betty Louise Van der Vlugt, a "Celebration of Life" ceremony will be held on January 20, 2024, at Gracepoint Church in Rocklin, California. The service will commence at 3:30 PM. Friends and family are invited to attend this gathering as we remember and honor the legacy left behind by Betty.

Betty's memory will forever be cherished by her best friend of 75 years, Maxine Blome, and surviving family, including her nephews David Knapp and Sam Knapp, nieces Shirley Knapp, Mary Volk, Rose Knapp, and Fernell Kruell, great-nieces Kristi Baumbach, Amy McHenry, and Aubriel Knapp, great-nephews David Roy Knapp, Samuel Lewallen, Peter Hotchkiss, Daniel Hotchkiss, Michael Hotchkiss, Oliver Hughes, Michael Taylor and Kenneth Richard Kruell, and great-great nieces Hannah Knapp and Eliana McHenry. She was preceded in death by her father Richard Knapp, mother Louise Knapp, brothers Richard Knapp Jr., Robert Knapp, and Henry Knapp, niece Rita Knapp, son Karl Van der Vlugt, great-nephew Steven Hughes, Jr., and husband Eugene Raymond Van der Vlugt. Betty shared almost five decades of marriage with her beloved husband "Ray".

Betty touched the lives of many with her warmth and generosity. Her memory will continue to inspire us all to embrace life's joys fully and approach each day with love and laughter. While we mourn the loss of an extraordinary woman, we also celebrate a life that impacted so many. Betty's spirit will continue to live on in the cherished memories we hold dear.