Henry "Hank" William Betz

Henry "Hank" William Betz, age 75 of Albia, passed away Thursday, June 13, 2013 at his home in Albia. Hank was born August 5, 1937 in Peoria, IL to Henry William and Phoebe (Robbins) Betz. He married Kaye Brees on December 4, 1992. Even at birth, Hank was a favorite to those around him. He was born at 1 lb. 12 oz. at St. Francis Hospital in Peoria. At this same time, a baby girl was also born premature and they became known as "Mickey and Minnie." The nickname stayed with him throughout his childhood years and his mother always referred to him as "Mick." Hank grew up and attended school in Lacon, Spring Bay and Sennaca, Illinois. He joined the United States Navy in 1957 and served his country through 1964. He served on the U.S.S. Roosevelt and commissioned the Enterprise. Hank worked various jobs, including supervising several Wareco stations in Illinois, working as a meat cutter in A&P grocery stores, and several factories in the maintenance department. He was best known for his role as Plant Operations Manager at Monroe County Hospital for the last 30 years. He treasured his many good friends at the hospital and valued Pam Radechel for her loyal and caring ways. Hank attended River Life Family Worship Center and made his commitment to Christ on April 26, 1998. Hank was baptized by Pastor Brad Gray on August 9, 1998. He enjoyed helping in the kitchen with the Youth Chili Fundraiser and Easter Morning Breakfasts. He also served on the Oak View Cemetery Board. Hank is survived by his wife, Kaye Betz of Albia; two daughters, Marie McKee and Cindy Slusser; seven grandchildren; a brother, Roger (Linda) Betz; a sister, Judine (Lenoard) Clancy; two nieces and a nephew. He was a cherished uncle to his 15 nieces and nephews, Michael, Sherri, Kelley, Lori, Kim, Debbie, Jason, Shellie, Lance, Jimmie, Jennifer, Cindy, Murenda, James, Tara and their families. They could always count on his whitty "tell it like it is" personality. He acquired 27 great nieces and nephews, two that were there for him through his illness, Kalene and Kaelin Meinders. Hank loved them all and was very proud to call them his family. Hank was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Terry Betz; and a brother, Gary Betz. Funeral services will be 11 a.m., Monday, June 17, 2013 at River Life Family Worship Center in Albia, with Pastor Brad Gray officiating. Military rites will be provided by the American Legion of Albia, Lovilia, and Melrose. As was Hank's wishes, his body will be cremated following the service with a burial at a later date. Visitation will open at 11 a.m., Sunday, June 16, 2013, at Tharp Funeral Home in Albia, with Hank's family present from 6-8 p.m. Sunday evening. An open memorial has been established in Hank's name.

Henry "Hank" William Betz

August 5, 1937 - June 13, 2013