“I am ready to go home to my Lord“…

With these words spoken and Christ in her heart, Betty Jean Kreiter took her final steps on earth and ascended to heaven into eternity upon Angels wings. Her 94 years here on earth were filled with much joy and many blessings.

Betty was born into the Paul Bradford family in Buckley Washington, on November 12, 1928. They lived through “The Great Depression” and World War II of the ‘30’s and ‘40’s. The Bradford family was not immune from this time, and like many, forged their characters into what has been called “The Greatest Generation”. One of Betty’s favorite sayings as we departed from her house was “Don’t forget to write if you find work!” This was a truth from the times she had lived through.

As many families did during these times the Bradfords moved to several towns finding work along the way. They ended up in Auburn, Washington in the ‘40’s. It was while attending Auburn High School Betty met the love of her life, Max Kreiter. They were married on September 18, 1948. Betty worked at Boeing in the Engineering print room while Max attended Seattle University studying Chemical Engineering.

The couple moved to Richland Washington after Max’s graduation in 1952 for work with General Electric on the Hanford Nuclear Reservation. The Cedar Street residence would become the hub of their lives for the next 45 years. Betty was a model mother focusing on raising their children and managing their home. She was involved in the women’s sorority group Beta Sigma Phi working in every position from member to chairwoman of their chapter. She was also a guest performer on a local television variety show. When they became empty nesters, Betty went to work as a Teachers Assistant at Jefferson Grade School where she brought her special love of children into the classroom. She found joy in being a part of the “Miss Tri-Cities” pageant where she chaperoned, hosted, and officiated at the events. She was also up for an occasional adventure as when she and Max trained for and climbed Mt. St. Helens. She enjoyed flying with Max to various local destinations and lunches. At one point she joined the Habitat for Humanity movement and served on their screening board. As a member, she helped assist many needy families into their first homes to fulfill their dreams. The same dreams she had so long ago.

Max retired from Battelle Labs, Betty from the School District and they decided it was time to move. They found a beautiful place on Fuji Way and called it home. They were again blessed to be surrounded by good neighbors. Children, Grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, relatives, old and new friends and neighbors came and visited on Fuji Way. Their 60^th and 70^th wedding anniversaries along with multiple birthdays were among the celebrations hosted there. Their lives were full, rich, and blessed.

Betty’s world changed significantly when Max was called home by the Lord on September 27, 2019. She spent the remaining years of her life independent in her home, surrounded by her loving family and friends. She treasured every visit, phone call and letter she received. She left this world having spent most of it serving others in humility and grace, but most of all surrounded by her children and the love of her Lord Jesus Christ.

Betty is survived by her Sister-in-laws; Wanda Bradford, Sandra Hixenbaugh, Sons; Kevin Kreiter (Sonja), Mark Kreiter (Trish), Matt Kreiter (Liz), ten grandchildren, seven greatgrandchildren and one great greatgrandchild, four nephews and two nieces.

A “Celebration of Life” ceremony will be held on May 6, 2023 from 2:00-5:00pm at Einans at Sunset Funeral Home, 915 By Pass Highway, Richland, WA 99352. Donations may be made on behalf of Betty Kreiter to the Liberty Christian School, 2200 Williams Blvd, Richland, WA 99354.