Elizabeth “Betts” Nyquist, age 65, passed away November 30, 2019. A Memorial Gathering will be held on Friday, December 6, 2019 from 2:00 – 4:00 PM at Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation (104 First Street West) in Jordan. A reception will follow.
On July 15, 1954, Elizabeth Ann Schmidt was born to parents Shorty & Pearl Schmidt. She was one of seven children and loved growing up with her siblings, Ceal, Jean, LeRoy, Frank, John & Joe. Their family moved around a bit while Betty was growing up. Whether they were living in Minnesota, Utah or South Dakota, Betty enjoyed playing outside and spending time with friends.
Once Betty was out on her own, she worked as a nurse’s aide and waitress. She also owned and operated a restaurant called the Ramona Diner when she lived in South Dakota. Betty worked for many senior living establishments and nursing homes as a nurse’s aide. She took pride in her work and took wonderful care of the residents.
Betts was a hard worker and had many jobs throughout her life, but the best job she ever had was being a mom to Donald, Amos & Amanda. Betts was the ultimate caregiver. She was both “mom” and “dad” to her kids. She always put them first and provided a good life for them. Even when they made parenting difficult for her, Betty always loved her children unconditionally. She was also an excellent grandmother to Jimmy, Madison and Owen. Her grandkids were her life, and she loved them deeply.
In her free time, Betts enjoyed playing cards and cribbage. She attended trivia nights at local watering holes and played BINGO any chance she got. Betts was also a hockey enthusiast. She LOVED the North Stars and MN Wild. She took her kids and grandkids to many games over the years. If she didn’t attend the game in-person, she watched the it on TV.
A few years ago, Betty’s daughter Amanda passed away suddenly. This was so hard on Betts, and her heart never truly recovered from this tragedy. Betty’s health declined, and eventually her COPD made it difficult for her to be active. As Betts spent more time in her home, she also spent more time watching her favorite shows: Dr. Phil, Jeopardy, All My Children, Two and a Half Men, Criminal Minds and Blue Bloods.
Betts was an independent woman. She spoke like a sailor but loved fiercely. Betty’s memory will now live on in her family and friends. She is survived by her sons, Donald Schmidt & Amos Schmidt; grandkids, Jimmy, Madison & Owen; siblings, Ceal, Jean, LeRoy, Frank & John. Betts is preceded by her daughter, Amanda Nyquist; parents, Shorty & Pearl Schmidt; and brother, Joe.
