Betty (Swiberg) Lageson was born in her home in Portland and grew up in the Kenton neighborhood with her parents, Carl and Anna (Swartz) Swiberg and her siblings Jack, Lisette (Fisher), Bobbie (Shea) and Ed.
An exemplary student at Immaculata High School, Betty was offered a scholarship by Seattle University, which she declined in order to help her parents. She worked as an office assistant at the Oregon Game Commission and saved her earnings to purchase her own piano.
Chester Lageson, a friend of her brother Jack, offered to teach Betty to drive. Driving lessons and friendship led to courtship and in 1948, Betty and Chet were married at St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church. One year later, their first child, Susan (Preciso) was born, followed by Kathryn (Honl) in 1950.
They moved to San Diego where Chet worked as a plumber. In 1954, Betty gave birth to David. Three years later, Thomas joined the family and in 1960 Anna arrived. Having enjoyed a decade of sunny weather, picnics in Balboa Park, and beach adventures, Betty and Chet returned to North Portland and completed their family with the arrival of Janet in 1961.
Betty volunteered in her children’s classrooms and chauffeured them everywhere, enthusiastically supporting each one of their interests. An amazing seamstress, Betty crafted gorgeous wedding dresses for her daughters. She was an artistic quilter and each of her children, grandchildren and most of her great-grandchildren cherish one of her hand-sewn quilts.
Betty and Chet loved to travel and camped throughout the Pacific Northwest and beyond. They ventured to Sweden where Betty was thrilled to see her father’s birthplace on Åland Island.
Betty’s Catholic faith was an essential source of her strength. She had a special devotion to Mary and prayed the rosary daily.
A voracious reader, Betty joined the women of her family at monthly book club gatherings, sharing in animated discussions, wine and much laughter.
Though heartbroken by the loss of her beloved Chet in 2008 she continued to embrace life. Betty died in her North Portland home, surrounded by her family. She leaves behind six children and their five spouses, 20 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. A rosary service will be held on Sunday, October 20, at 5:00 p.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, October 21, at 11:00 a.m. also at Holy Cross. All are welcome.
