(1928–2025)
Betty Jane Johnsen was born on February 2, 1928, in Kalispell, Montana, to Carl and Ruth Frolander. She grew up on her family’s farm in Ronan with siblings Dean and Esther.
In 1957, Betty married Gorden Johnsen, and they settled in Ravensdale, Washington in 1960, raising their blended family. Their home was the heart of family gatherings, especially Christmas Eve dinners with Norwegian lefse and divinity candy.
Betty worked in various roles including cook, bank courier, and machinist for Boeing, proudly calling herself a “Rosie the Riveter.” A talented artist, Betty painted landscapes and portraits, often selling her signature painted saw blades. She taught art classes at the Maple Valley Community Center and collaborated with Gorden on his woodwork. She liked country music, westerns, and yard sales. A devoted member of Ravensdale Bible Church, she served as treasurer and hosted sing-alongs.
After Gorden’s passing in 2000, Betty found companionship in her dachshund, Cricket. She continued creating art even as dementia affected her memory.
Betty passed away on February 1, 2025, just before her 97th birthday. She is survived by her children Angela Joy (Gene), Robert (Bev), and Lenny (Sandy); grandchildren Megan, Amy, Gene Jr., Terry, Monica and Mike; great-grandchildren Alex, Winston, and RaeLynn; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends.
A memorial service will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery on March 6 at 12:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America or Maple Valley Community Center. Please visit flintofts.com/obituaries to share your memories of Betty.
