She was born in Bryant, Washington on July 31, 1934, to George and Sylvia Espe. She graduated from Arlington High School in 1951 and went through nurses training at Everett General Hospital, completing her program in 1954. Her professional life as an RN began at Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington. After serving as a School Nurse in the Arlington School district, found her calling and enjoyed 27 years as a pediatric nurse for Dr. Thompson at the Everett Clinic.
Betty married Bob in 1955, and they enjoyed 62 years of adventure together. They worked together with the Bryant community as partners in fundraising, building, and beginning the Bryant fire department. She spent many years in the Fireman’s Auxiliary and was district secretary. She and Bob fully managed the Loyal Heights community hall for 16 years and were active volunteers in many other local community programs and events. Together they enjoyed a lifetime of family and friend’s recreation beginning with boating in the San Juan Islands and ending with snow-birding in their motor home.
Friends fondly remember Betty for being the consummate hostess, always being served coffee, tea and cookies whenever they stopped by for a visit. Betty loved the outdoors and nature and valued her family and lifetime friendships.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob, her brother, Arnold Espe, and niece Inga Espe.
She is survived by her son Mark (Marla) Williams and daughter Marilee (Gary) Falde, and grandchildren Brady and Bryan Williams; Derek (Courtney) Falde, and Katrina (Toby) Lounsbury.
A memorial service will be at 12:00 noon on Friday, August 2, 2019, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church. 615 E. Highland Drive, Arlington, with a luncheon reception to follow in the adjacent hall.
