David L. Bettge

On Tuesday, May 19, 2015, David L. Bettge, passed this earthly life at his home in Ottawa, and joined his Heavenly Father. David was born in Ottawa, KS on August 17, 1933, the son of Raymond C. and Alta (Baker) Bettge of Ottawa. On May 3, 1953, David married Leone Cordle of Pressonville, KS. They divorced after 29 years of marriage. On September 20, 1986, Dave married Betty J. Dove of Ottawa. They were blessed with over 26 years with a wonderful marriage until Betty’s death on December 4, 2012. David grew up and attended all public schools through high school in Ottawa. He was active in sports, including football, basketball and track. David was in the trucking business for a total of 64 years, having owned and operated his own trucks and driven for many companies over the years. David was a hard worker, and a devout Christian. He was an active member of North Baptist Church of Ottawa most of his life. He served many times as deacon, trustee, Sunday school teacher, usher, and nominating committee member. David is survived by 5 children, daughter, Debra Dover and husband Ray of Olathe, KS; son, Kenneth Bettge and wife Debbie of Guthrie, OK; son, Chris Bettge and wife Cyndi of Gardner, KS; son, Roger Bettge and wife Brenda of Ottawa, KS; and daughter, Teresa Eads and husband Dennis of Ottawa, KS; 16 grandchildren; 39 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. David is also survived by “adopted” daughter, Joyce Records and husband George and their two daughters of Ottawa. Although not legally adopted, they were as much a part of his life as his own children and grandchildren. Preceding him in death were his parents, Raymond C. and Alta Bettge; brothers, George Bettge and Fred Bettge; and sister, Doris O’Melia. David was a long standing and well respected member of the Ottawa community, and will be greatly missed by those whose lives were touched. Family will meet with friends from 7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., Friday, May 22, 2015, at North Baptist Church, Ottawa. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M., Saturday, May 23, 2015, at the church by Rev. Kim Wilcox. Interment will follow at Highland Cemetery, Ottawa. The family suggests memorial contributions to North Baptist Church c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067. Family and friends are encouraged to leave their condolences and memories on David’s Tribute Wall at www.dengelmortuary.com.