Betty Joan Hutchins

Betty Joan Hutchins passed away on June 13th, 2023. She was born in Greeley, NE; lived in Scotia, NE, until she married Don Hutchins in 1946 and they began their married life in North Loup, NE, and had two daughters, Deborah and Susan. In 1955 they moved to Fort Collins, CO. Betty dedicated herself to raising their daughters and taking care of their home.

Betty was a teacher before marriage; but in those days, a female teacher could not be married so that career ended in 1945. After moving to Fort Collins, she considered pursuing a college degree. Instead, she volunteered to help others whenever and wherever she was needed, and she always put others’ needs before her own. When her oldest daughter was a senior in high school, she began working at Colorado State University as a receptionist in a dorm; and that began one of those amazing success stories. Her promotions continued through the years, and she retired in 1990 as the Director of Apartment Housing.

Betty had many talents; her cake-decorating ability was much appreciated by her daughters and her grandchildren; she made her own and her girls’ clothes; she had a beautiful voice and sang in the church choir as well as singing solos for weddings and funerals. She was also a member of the Sunshine Singers Club which she thoroughly enjoyed. Betty’s involvement with their church, The First United Methodist Church in Fort Collins, was a focal point in her life—singing in the choir, a member of the women’s circle, teacher of Sunday school, and most other activities that were part of the church community. Betty’s heart and acceptance would go out to people whom others may find difficult or challenging to befriend. She accepted them and was there for them.

Betty was a loving wife, tireless in her efforts to maintain a loving home, never complained about hardships, and embraced life’s challenges with open arms. Comments her daughters have received include: she was the nicest person I’ve ever met, she was truly one of my heroes, she was such a kind and gentle soul -- with a wonderful sense of humor and great appreciation of life, we have never known a more beautiful, kind, compassionate woman. Betty was an amazing grandma and great grandma. The example she set for her family as she lived her life was one of love and sharing.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Donald. Betty is survived by her daughter, Deborah Dabkowski (Buz Dabkowski) of Erie, CO; daughter, Susan Bock (Marc Bock) of Huntington Beach, CA; three grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

A funeral will be held on July 7th at 11:00 at the First United Methodist Church in Fort Collins, CO. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Betty may be made to Food Bank of Larimer County or Pathways Hospice in Fort Collins.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.allnuttftcollins.com for the Hutchins family.