Betty Ann Cleveland

Betty Cleveland, age 84, of Cresco, Iowa, passed away peacefully in the early hours of June 12, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Betty was born in New Hampton, Iowa, to Orvin and Janette (Haugsted) Knutson. She attended country school and later Crestwood High School. Throughout her life, Betty held a variety of jobs; but especially enjoyed cleaning for businesses and private residences-a role she took great pride in.
Betty married the love of her life, Gary Cleveland, 56 years ago. Together, they blended their families and added two children of their own, creating a strong and loving home. As the wife of the town's sheriff, Betty's role extended beyond the home-she supported Gary in his work, helped raise their children in the jailhouse where they lived, prepared meals for inmates, and kept the facility spotless with her well-known cleaning skills.
One of Betty's greatest joys in life was sending cards-each one thoughtfully filled with stickers, pictures and heartfelt notes. She also loved to bake, especially her treasured "Grandma's biscuits." Her warm, giving spirit and natural desire to help others made her a blessing to all who knew her. But of all the things Betty loved in life, her 15 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren were her greatest treasures.
To more than just her own grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she was affectionately known as "Grandma Betty." Her heart was big enough to love everyone as her own, and her kindness touched countless lives. Betty's legacy of unconditional love, generosity and selfless service will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Gary Cleveland of Cresco; children: Tim "TC" Shimek of Waucoma, IA, Renee Ridner of Mooresville, IN, Renee (Bob) Nicosia of Orlando, FL, Tammy (Jeff) Malone of Greenwood, IN, Carl Shimek Jr. of Fredericksburg, IA Troy (Cathy) Cleveland of Cresco, and Danielle (Mike) Dorenkamp of Thornton, IA; 15 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren; and her sisters Joan Sebastian and Pam Darland both of Cresco.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her in-laws; a sister Annetta Katz; two brothers-in-law; a son-in-law; a nephew and many cherished friends.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00am on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at Notre Dame Catholic Church in Cresco. Visitation will be held from 3:00-6:00pm on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at Schmelzer Funeral Home in Cresco and again one hour prior to services on Wednesday morning at the church.