Betty Virginia Knouse

Betty was born to Louis and Edythe Carpenter in Wallowa, OR. She was the 5th child, and first daughter, born into a family of 7 children. She graduated from Wallowa High School in 1941 and then attended business college in Spokane. When her high school boyfriend, Elwood Knouse, returned from the war, they reconnected and were married in December of 1946. They established their first home in Portland.

Betty had a long career as a secretary for the Lake Oswego School District. She helped open River Grove elementary in 1967 and retired from there in 1985.

Betty’s greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends. Her energy was boundless, she loved to travel, entertain, was an avid bridge player, voracious reader and walker. Betty was an active member of Lake Grove Presbyterian Church for 65 years and a 50 year member of P.E.O., a philanthropic organization.

Betty is survived by her three daughters: Kathleen Koning, Kristine Sparks (Martha Wilson) and Julie Smith (Donald); four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Elwood (Woody), son, Richard Knouse, and granddaughter, Caitlin Smith.

A celebration of Betty’s life will be on Saturday, October 11th at 11:00 at Lake Grove Presbyterian Church, 4040 Sunset Drive, Lake Oswego, OR 97035

Donations may be made in Betty’s honor to: The Barnabus Fund at Lake Grove Presbyterian.