Betty Lou Jansonius, 97

Betty Lou (Rector) Jansonius, 97, of Ackley and Geneva, Iowa, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2023.

Betty was born on November 2nd, 1926 to Orval and Arley Grace (Palmer) Rector in Webster City. The family moved to Ackley, and after graduating from Ackley High School in 1944, she went on to study at Iowa State Teachers College, receiving her teaching certificate. After graduation, she taught at several rural one-room schoolhouses in Ackley and the surrounding area.

During high school, she met Calvin Jansonius, and they wed in 1948. To this union four children were born; Sherry, Cyndi, Rex, and Todd. Betty cared very deeply for her family, neighbors, and community. Betty was quick-witted and bright, and was renowned for her generous, charismatic, and loving spirit. Anyone who met her became an instant fan, as Betty was truly one of a kind.

Betty volunteered her time as an election worker, for the Girl Scouts, helped with the US census, and other community and church functions including singing in the United Methodist Church Choir. She was an avid bridge-player, and was also an Avon Lady for many years. Betty always made sure to have plenty of inventory on hand for her family, friends, and neighbors. In fact, Calvin often commented that she was her own best customer.

Calvin and Betty worked very hard on the family farm for many years, but they did find time to see the world, taking wonderful trips to Hawaii, Europe, Australia/New Zealand, Alaska, and Panama, and other destinations.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Calvin Jansonius; sisters, Dimple Raven, Neva Heitland, Helen Gresslin, Dora (Dee) Seibold, and infant sister Thelma.

She is survived by her children; Sherry Stout, Cyndi McClendon, Rex Jansonius, and Todd (Nancy) Jansonius; grandchildren, Josh (Kayla Clarken) McClendon, Stephanie (Randy Reece) Stout, Natalie Stout, Brent (Anne) McClendon, Eric Jansonius, Nicholas Stout, and Alex Jansonius; and great-grandchildren, Jayden Stout, Lindsey Stout, and Kenzie Beyers. She also leaves numerous loving nieces and nephews.

The family has planned a visitation on Monday, November 27th, 2023 at Sietsema Funeral Home, 501 10th Ave, Ackley, Iowa, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. The funeral will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, November 28th, 2023, at the United Methodist Church, 416 Hardin Street, Ackley, Iowa, with a graveside service at Pleasant Hill Cemetery. Following the graveside service, a luncheon will be served at the church.