Robert J., Jr. Betts

Robert J. Betts Jr., 85 of Lewistown, passed away at 8:40 a.m., Friday, December 7, 2018, at his home.

Born Oct. 18, 1933, in Lewistown, he was the son of the late Robert J. Sr. and Ruth P. (Barger) Betts.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by: his wife, Delores M. (Haines) Betts, April 13, 2014; his daughter, Terrie Lee Hall, Sept. 8, 1997; and sisters, Roberta Weiand and Margaret Kauffman.

Robert is survived by: son, James A. Betts, of Calif.; granddaughters, Crystal Whitesel and husband, Jesse, of East Waterford, and Jamie Hall, of Lewistown; and five great-grandchildren, Dakota, Alexis, Kyle, Zoey and Opal.

He graduated from Lewistown High School, Class of 1953.

Bob was a 20-year Navy veteran who entered the military in 1953 as a seaman recruit and retired in 1973 at the rank of Petty Officer First Class.  His time in service included the Korean Conflict, Vietnam War and Cuban Missile Crisis.  Among his many duty assignments in the United States and abroad, he served aboard Guided Missile Group One at Barbers Point, at Norfolk Naval Air Station, and the USS Ticonderoga.  His achievements included the Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (Korea) and Gallantry Cross (Vietnam).  Upon returning to civilian life, Bob worked for Unisys Corporation as an electronic plant mechanic for 18 years and later, drove bus for J & D's Transportation.

He attended the Lewistown Assembly of God Church.

Bob was a member and trustee of the East Derry Fire Company and drove the fire engines and other vehicles.  He was a member of VFW Post 7011, Lewistown Moose #143 and the Moose Riders.

A viewing will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2018, at Hoenstine Funeral Home, 75 Logan St., Lewistown.

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 13, 2018, at Lewistown Assembly of God Church, 160 Summit Drive, Lewistown, with Rev. Dennis Sproull officiating.

Interment will take place at Wagner Cemetery, McClure, with military honors provided by VFW Post 7011, Lewistown.

Memorial contributions in Robert's memory may be made to: Lewistown Assembly of God Church, 160 Summit Dr., Lewistown, PA 17044.    

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