Betty Ann Engle

Published 12:25 am Thursday, May 21, 2015

Nov. 14, 1920 – May 3, 2015

Betty Ann Engle was born on November 14, 1920 in Hood River, Oregon to Lionel Sexton and Opal Grizzel Sexton. As a young child, they moved to Agency Plains near Madras, Oregon.

She started school in Madras, living in a boarding house during the week. It was in that house that she discovered the piano and began a love of music that continued throughout her life.

In her early teens, a business opportunity took their family to Shelton, Washington, where she graduated from high school. By then, she was playing several instruments, including the piano, cornet and accordion.

In her senior year, she won a national talent contest for her musical ability. Her talent earned her a full scholarship to Linfield College in McMinnville, Oregon. While working at the Palm Cafe on 3rd street, she met her future husband, Douglas Engle. They were married on January 12th, 1941.

During World War II, they moved to Los Angeles so Doug could work at the Lockheed plant. Betty regularly played the piano for servicemen at the USO Canteen.

After the war, they moved back to McMinnville where they raised their seven children. Although they lived for many years in the local area, most will remember the time spent in their home with the lovely yard on Elm street.

Betty did volunteer work for several local charities, including the Boys and Girls Aid Society and the Red Cross.

On May 3, 2015, Betty passed away peacefully and with grace in the family home. She will always be remembered for her warm heart, her big smile, her beautiful garden and her love of music.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Douglas, and her son, Lionel. She is survived by her children, Linda (Neal) Huston, Thomas (Martha) Engle, Meri (Bill) Roberts, Robert Engle, Zelda (Joe) Kittel, Marilyn (Brian) McKenzie, daughter-in-law Janet Engle, nine grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. She will be missed by her family and all those who knew her.

In honoring her request, there will be no Memorial Service. A Celebration of Life will be held in August.

Contributions in her memory may be made to KIDS Center, 1375 NW Kingston Ave., Bend, OR.