Bette Jane Koehn

Our mother and grandmother, Bette Jane Esau Koehn, was born on July 7, 1929, to Cornelius and Mary Giesbrecht Esau in Kansas. She departed this life, surrounded by family, on September 17, 2025, at Grace Home. She loved life, and lived it to the best of her ability, despite hard times in the "dirty '30's."

She received her formal education at Arundel School in Winton, California and made many lifetime friendships with classmates, some of with whom she never lost touch. She enjoyed taking us back to the old schoolhouse site and reminiscing about the times spent there. At the age of 13, she surrendered her heart to God and on Dec. 3, 1943, was baptized into the Church of God in Christ Mennonite. She loved the Lord and the Church, being faithful to her vows until death. Her Bible was precious to her, and she spent many hours praying for her family.

She met our father Eugene, and they were married on November 2, 1947, in Winton, California, enjoying 61 years together. Mom was a resourceful housekeeper and supported Dad in his occupations and self-employment ventures. She was a missionary and fulfilled her ambition of making a difference by providing love and security in the hearts and lives of others, especially children. In the summer of 1967, folks opened their home to children from the California bay area. Through this venture they were able to add another daughter to the full farmhouse. We scooted over and made room for Nancy to come in and join the family. For many summers they opened their home and hearts to siblings Linda and Greg Moody, with whom there was a special bond formed. While growing up, we remember the many times of children coming and going with lots of noise and commotion. When most of the children were gone from home, other doors of service opened. Taking in the Burdick children was a blessing. Many lasting relationships were formed during this time. Mom had a special love for quilting and many of her family possess her hand-crafted treasures. She was a lover of song, and once when called on to sing at someone's funeral, it was announced that music would be provided by "Bette and her girls." Mom was well known for her hospitality and the words were often heard, "There is always room for one more." Mom loved visiting and socializing and wherever she went she made friends. A few dark times in life that tested her were in 1967 when her brother Dick was killed in a truck driving accident, and later when her sister Gladys died of a brain hemorrhage. Through these times she taught us the value of prayer and holding to the hand of the Lord. Still wanting to serve later in life, folks opened their home to her mother and stepdad to live with them.

When our father could no longer care for himself and was admitted into Grace Home, Mom loved it when he powered his electric scooter over to her apartment and would spend most of the day with her. Our dad passed in 2008, and Mom continued living in her apartment, entertaining family and friends as much as she was able. In 2022, it became obvious that our mother needed more care and she graciously accepted the change of moving into Grace Home. She enjoyed visiting with family and friends and endeavored to help some of her fellow residents with some of their challenges. She loved it when someone came to her room and challenged her to a game of Scrabble, often coming out the winner. She had a sharp mind, sense of humor, and a ready answer for most of the topics that were discussed. She grew old gracefully and was a true mother in Israel, leaving a lasting legacy to her family.

Left with fond memories are her children; Barbara and Dennis Boehs; daughter in law Bonnie Koehn; Joyce Nightingale and Rick Nightingale; David and Becky Koehn; Nancy and Russell Koehn; Mike Koehn and Jaylyn Koehn; Debbie and Brian Duerksen; 31 grandchildren; 73 great- grandchildren; 11 great great-grandchildren; one brother Verle Esau, one sister Christine Esau, one sister in law Darlene Esau, one brother in law JayDean Martens, and many special friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband Eugene; one son, Steve; one grandson, Evan; two infant great-grandchildren; two brothers and two sisters.