Ivanka Betcher

Ivanka Betcher, affectionately known as Iva, passed away peacefully in her sleep on October 24, 2025, in Waelder, Texas, following a short illness. She was born on November 16, 1930, in Prague, Czechoslovakia, and her journey through life was marked by passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of others.

Iva dedicated several years of her life to serving as a home health care nurse in Florida, where she demonstrated remarkable compassion and professionalism in her career. Her training as a pharmacist complemented her desire to help those in need, allowing her to create a positive impact in the lives of her patients and their families.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Iva was known for her exceptional cooking skills and gift for hospitality. Friends and family alike cherished the warmth of her home, savoring the delicious meals she lovingly prepared. Her involvement in her church community in Tennessee before moving to Texas highlighted her commitment to nurturing both spirit and community.

An enthusiastic learner, Iva had an insatiable curiosity about the world around her. She was an avid reader and a devoted traveler, using her love for maps to carefully plan routes for her travels and those of her family members. Her boundless interest in different cultures and places enriched her life and the lives of those who knew her, as she shared stories and joy derived from her explorations.

Iva is survived by her beloved daughter, Ivanka Lilie, and her son-in-law, Ron Lilie. She is also mourned by her granddaughter, Jeannette Langer, and Jeannette’s husband, Brian Pearson, along with her cherished great grandson, Sebastian Pearson. Iva's loving family extended to her step-grandchildren: Benjamin Pflaum and his wife, Viktoria Vargas; Daniel Pflaum and his wife, Walburga Quittel; as well as step great-grandchildren, Hendrik Pflaum, Patricia Pflaum, Rosalie Pflaum, Elija Quittel, Baltazar Quittel, and Casper Quittel. Additionally, she is survived by her stepdaughter, Linda Hartlein, and her husband, Ken Hartlein, alongside their children, Greg Hartlein and his wife, Kendra, and Lauren Sowa and her husband, Johannes Sowa, with step great granddaughters, Lizzy and Violet Hartlein.

Iva is also remembered fondly by her close friend, Helena Crumbliss, and many others in the community of Waelder, where she touched numerous lives with her kindness and generosity.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Alexander Betcher, whose memory she carried with her throughout her life.

As we celebrate Iva's legacy, we remember her not only for her accomplishments but also for the love and warmth she shared with everyone around her. Her spirit will forever remain in our hearts.

                                                                                                           CREMATION