Betty Burton Wiltsey

Betty Wiltsey, age 86, died on March 2nd of 2011. She was born in the small town of Parowan, Utah on December 22, 1924 to Dr. Frank and Ida Orton Burton. She is a descendant of Utah's earliest pioneers. Betty moved to Ontario, California with her husband Ray, in 1952. They had eight children and their motto was, "there's always room for one more". They opened their home and hearts to their children's friends and to relatives throughout the years. While raising their children, Betty worked as a Medical Records Librarian at Ontario Community Hospital. After retiring, she enjoyed taking care of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. A dedicated community member, Betty volunteered with a variety of local organizations including the Ontario Museum, Meals on Wheels, the Red Cross and the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA). She loved to crochet and donated more than 400 of her crocheted afghans to the VNA. She also loved to garden and tend her roses. She was a talented pianist and a great cook. An avid reader, she made regular use of her library card and read a wide variety of best sellers. Betty was a loyal Dodger fan and she never missed a game! She will be remembered for her generosity, strength, independent spirit, and her sense of humor, even during this difficult time. Most of all, she was totally devoted to her family. Betty passed away quietly at home surrounded by her loved ones. Her family would like to thank her friends and neighbors for their love and concern. They also thank the staff at Kaiser Hospital in Fontana for their care during her lengthy hospitalization. In addition, they would like to thank the VNA hospice doctors, nurses, home health aides, and other staff who visited Betty in her home. They enabled her to remain peaceful and pain free during the last few weeks of her life. Betty is survived by her eight children: Jerry Wiltsey (Maria), Jannette Wiltsey, Pamela Weatherby (Terry), Gregory Wiltsey, Dennis Wiltsey, Marsha Fox (Kevin), Cindy Tonan (Joe), and Martin Wiltsey. She will be dearly missed by her eighteen grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. She has two more great grandchildren on the way. Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Ray Wiltsey. A viewing is scheduled at Draper Mortuary on Monday, March 7, from 3:00 to 7:00 P.M. A program celebrating her life will begin at 6:00 P.M. There will be a private graveside service for the family. In lieu of flowers, Betty requested donations be made to VNA and Hospice of Southern California, 150 West 1st St, Suite 270, Claremont, CA 91711.