Betty J. Rezentes

Betty J. Rezentes February 14, 1941-May 17, 2011 Betty passed away peacefully at her home in Tacoma, Washington with her family at her side. Betty was born and raised in Wahiawa, Hawaii. She was a homemaker in Ewa Beach, Hawaii, taking care of her 4 children, then worked at Pay 'n Save for many years before retiring due to Rheumatoid Arthritis in 1992. She helped to raise her daughter Michelle's children in Waianae, Hawai'i, before moving to Tacoma, Washington in 2000 where she spent the last 10 years. Some of Betty's favorite past times were cooking and sewing. It made her happy to cook for everyone and made her smile when everyone commented how "ono" (good) her food was. Betty also took pride in her sewing, teaching her daughter Willow how to sew. She often said how she missed sewing in the last few years, but her arthritic hands couldn't do it anymore. While living in Washington, Betty had a chance to travel with her daughter Stephanie to a few places that she thought she would never visit, like New York, New Mexico, California, and Las Vegas. Betty's daughters took care of her and looked after her when her health declined, and her faithful pet companion Hoku was always a comfort to her. Betty was a gentle and loving soul. She was full of love for everyone, including her family and friends and all who met her. She touched many who knew her as being an excellent cook and a meticulous and creative seamstress; being so patient especially with her grandchildren and great grandchildren; and being a great listener, and a kind and loyal friend. Betty is survived by her 4 loving children: son Norman (Boy) Rezentes Jr, daughters Willow Berntsen, Stephanie Rezentes (Nancy Marsh), and Michelle Silva (Robin); grandchildren LeeAnn Areana, Erica Enitan, Kala Berntsen, Asherly, Ariel and Austin Silva; great grandchildren Leisa Kusto, Marina Neyoy-Valenzuela, Kalaya Berntsen; former spouse Norman Rezentes Sr; brothers Robert, Charles, John and Gerald Coe; and sisters Jean Temblor and Debra Haina. A Memorial Mass will be held on Wednesday June 8, 2011, 11:00 a.m. at Visitation Catholic Church, 3314 S. 58th St., Tacoma. Rosary will precede the mass. Cake and coffee to follow at Collier Center. A gathering will be held later in the summer for family in Hawai'i. "I Love You Mom, and everyday my understanding of life and love is made richer by your shining example. I love you for all that you've done for me. You guide gently and love wholeheartedly. Your patience and generosity are never ending. Your wisdom and humor enrich all those around you. Your insights on life are my best lessons. The joys of growing up with a Mother like you will bless me always."