Maurice Allen Betts

Maurice Allen Betts Sr. was called home to his Heavenly Kingdom on July 19, 2024, at Fair Oaks Lodge in Wadena, MN under the care of Knute Nelson Hospice and Homecare at the age of 62 years, 7 months, 12 days.
Maurice "Chummer" was born on December 14, 1961, to Alec Betts Sr. & Gloria Betts (Ames) in Wausau, Wisconsin. He attended Wausau East High School.
Maurice felt his need to serve his country and on December 27, 1978, joined the United States Marine corps. He attended boot camp and was stationed at Camp Pendleton, California. He was deployed to Okinawa, Japan twice. He was honorably discharged, December 8, 1982, with the rank of Lance Corporal E3.
Maurice worked as a Masonry with his father, assembling windmills in North Dakota with his son Michael, as a construction supervisor throughout Minnesota, Wisconsin, & North Dakota. He owned his own business, "Betts Handyman Service" and was employed at RDO in Park Rapids.
His favorite past time included camping with his family, swimming, family & neighborhood bar b ques where no one could grill or smoke better than he could. His favorite season and hobby was fishing. Whether it be on the lake or standing on shore with his children or awaiting the arrival of his brother Alec "Butch" Jr. from Wisconsin for opening day in Minnesota. His favorite fishing hole was Blacksmith in Hubbard County. The desire to deer hunt and teach his sons and grandson the art of getting the big buck ran strong in his blood.
In 1979 he met the love of his life and partner, Anita Jean, and became engaged in 1986. Together their love was fulfilled with the birth of their four children.
After moving to his current residence in Park Rapids, he became known as the apartment complex guard sitting outside from early morning to late in the evening, whether it was 90 degrees or 30 below. Chummer was one that you could sit and listen to his stories of his life, time in the military, or his many construction sight problems. He always had a listening ear and gave advice to anyone regardless if they wanted, needed or ask for it.
Maurice will be lovingly remembered by his Fiancé Anita Jean Schleicher, Son Michael, and Daughter Nicole (Nathan French) all of Park Rapids, Son Maurice Jr. of Wisconsin. Brother Alec "Butch" Jr. (Sally) of Wisconsin, Sister Laurel "Lori" (Randy) Moore of Wisconsin. Five granddaughters, Elizza, Grace, Daniella, Ella, and Lilly. Two Grandson, Malakai & Joshua Jr. Great Grandson Mateo and Great Granddaughter Arianna. His dog, Baby.
Maurice was welcomed home in heaven by his Lord and Savior. Awaiting to greet him with open arms, parents Alec and Gloria, Son Joshua Sr., Brother Brad, Sister Gale Betts, and Nephew Johnathon Moore.
Memorial services will be held on August 2, 2024, at Cease Family Funeral Home in Park Rapids, MN. Visitation from 10:00 am with service to begin at 11:00 am. A private family Inurnment will be held at a later date at Greenwood Cemetery in Park Rapids, MN.
Military Honors by All Veteran Memorial Burial Team, Park Rapids, MN.
May his life be remembered always and his mark on earth be forever embedded in our minds.