Betty A. Phelps
August 25, 1932 - August 21, 2019

Betty Ann (Ricklefs) Phelps was born on August 25, 1932 in rural Titonka, the daughter of Harry and Tressie (Spear) Ricklefs. She grew up and graduated from Titonka High School. A highlight of her high school years was competing for the Band Festival in Mason City where she won the queen title. Following high school, she attended Business College for a couple years.

On August 15, 1954, Betty was united in marriage to Leroy Phelps at the Good Hope Lutheran Church in Titonka. Betty and Leroy lived in Kansas for a short time, where Leroy was stationed in the Army. After his discharge in 1955, the couple farmed north of Titonka for the rest of their married life. Betty and Leroy were known to do everything together. From square dancing to farming and everything in between.

She enjoyed many things in life. Cooking, baking, sewing, fishing and camping. Betty and Leroy took each grandchild on their own special camping trip with Grandma and Grandpa. She also enjoyed wintering in Texas. In her later years, she enjoyed quilting for Lutheran World Relief. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were her pride and joy. She loved attending their activities and many games and cards were played over the years.

Betty died on Wednesday, August 21, 2019, at Kossuth Regional Health Center, Algona. She was 86.

Betty is survived by her children, Gary (Ann) Phelps of Titonka, Doug (Laurie) Phelps of Titonka, Kevin (Laura) Phelps of Shawnee, Kansas; grandchildren, Justine (Lane) Jahn, Tyler Phelps, Janel (Chris) Cocherell, Scott (Miranda Combs) Phelps, Jacob Phelps, Sam Phelps, Alex Phelps; great-grandchildren, Isaac Jahn, Eliza Jahn, Adelaide Jahn, Audrey Cocherell; sister-in-law, Loretta Ricklefs; brother-in-law, Merle (Margaret) Phelps, and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Leroy in January of 2001; brothers, Harold (Mildred) Ricklefs, Vernon (Darlene) Ricklefs, Melvin Ricklefs; and sister-in-law, Ruth (Joe) Kolar.

Tributes