Betty Jean Rowland, age 92, of North Platte, NE, passed away on Saturday, December 17, 2016, at the North Platte Care Center.
Betty was born October 14, 1924, to Vernon E. and Stella Belle Ellenwood Kuhns at North Platte where she grew up. She graduated from North Platte High School in 1943 and later worked as a messenger for Western Union.
In June of 1946, Betty was united in marriage to the love of her life, Raymond Thomas Rowland. They made their home in North Platte and raised two sons. Betty worked for Dog-N-Suds and Dryen Drug before going to work for Westfield Pharmacy for 20 years.
Betty was a member of the First Evangelical Lutheran Church where she played the piano, sang in the choir and taught Sunday School. She had been an active member of AA for over 46 years, and was the oldest member in North Platte. Over the years she sponsored many individuals and helped them through the most difficult times of their lives.
Betty liked to bake and was famous for her chocolate brownies and cinnamon rolls. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandkids and taking them on trips. Betty was a kind, caring person who enjoyed helping others.
She is survived by her sons, Richard (Susan) Rowland, of Omaha, NE, and John (Sandy) Rowland, of North Platte; three grandchildren, Robert (Sheri) Rowland, Randy (Melissa) Rowland and Heather Rowland; great-grandson, Tyler Rowland; step great-grandchildren, Jessi and Jared; as well as several nieces, nephews and other family.
Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond; infant daughter, Mary; her parents, Vernon and Stella Kuhns; brothers, Richard and Jack Kuhns; and daughter-in-law, Mary Rowland.
Funeral Service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, December 21, 2016, at the First Evangelical Lutheran Church with Pastor Steve Berke officiating. Burial will follow in Fort McPherson National Cemetery. The casket will be closed at the church. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Odean Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore, which is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may also be shared at odeanchapel.com. Memorials are to the Leukemia Foundation.