Charles Richard Bettis

Charles Richard Bettis was called home to be with the Lord on Thursday, May 9, 2013 at the age of 92. Charles was born in Dandridge, Tennessee on September 20, 1920 to Roy and Naomi Bettis. At the age of two his family moved to Harper, Kansas where he attended different schools, graduating from Spring Township High School in 1940. In 1941 he moved to California with his brother and sister-in-law, Paul and Zina, settling in Holmes. Shortly after moving to Holmes he met the love of his life and married Rebecca Irene Goodner. In March they celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary. Shortly after married he was drafted into the Army where he served in Italy during WWII. After his discharge, he built his home in Rio Dell in 1948. There he and Irene raised their family of 4 boys. Charles and his brother Paul started Bettis Brothers Garage in the early 50's and he continued to operate the business until the late 60's at which time he went to work for Pacific Lumber Company at their Yager Camp operations, retiring in 1985. Besides total devotion to his family, he was very active in the Rio Dell Church of Christ since the early 60's. He was the scoutmaster of Troop 33 in Rio Dell for over 5 years. Upon retirement, he was active in the Senior Citizens of Rio Dell, Brown Bag and other outreach programs. Charles was preceded in death by his parents, brothers James and Paul, and sister Mary Taton. He was also preceded in death by his oldest son Richard Bettis. He is survived by his wife Irene, sons Randy, Ron and Rod, 8 Grandchildren, 19 Great-Grandchildren and 4 Great-Great-Grandchildren. There will be a celebration of life for those of you who would like to come and share, on Sunday, June 9, 2013 from 1:00 to 4:00 PM, at the Fortuna Fire Department located at 320 South Fortuna Blvd. Arrangements are under the direction of Goble's Fortuna Mortuary, Fortuna, California. Please sign the guestbook at www.times-standard.com, click on obits.