Betty Joan McMichael

1933 - 2025

Betty Joan McMichael

As in contemplation lie, reflecting in the days gone by, I think how fortunate am I, for I've been blessed by the hand of God. These are the opening lines of a poem Betty wrote in 1997 as a Christmas gift to her family.

Betty Joan McMichael was born February 20, 1933, in Hot Springs, South Dakota, the daughter of Milo and Eloise (Graves) Christensen. She joined her savior on February 5, 2025, with her beloved Mike by her side.

She spent the first 34 years of her life in Edgemont, SD. She graduated from Edgemont High School in 1951 and married her high school sweetheart the same year. The marriage ended in divorce, but created gifts, too. Two cherished daughters; Darla Rae and Dana Kay.

That same year Betty embarked on a nearly 40-year career, starting with 16 years at Black Hills Army Depot, Igloo, South Dakota. In 1967, she transferred to Umatilla Army Depot in Hermiston, Oregon where a promotion took her to the US Army Corps of Engineers in 1973. She always enjoyed her work and in 1983 she was selected as the Walla Walla District's "Supervisor of the Year". Betty retired from McNary Dam at the end of 1990.

On July 27, 1973, Betty married the love of her life and soul mate, CJ "Mike" McMichael. This union extended her family to include two stepsons; Larry Lloyd (Julie) McMichael and Terry Lee (Therese) McMichael and one stepdaughter; Sandra Lynn. At that time, she became "Grandma" to six grandchildren.

Betty accepted Jesus as her savior at the age of 16. She allowed him to become Lord of her Life when she was re-baptized in 1973 at the First Christian Church in Hermiston, Oregon.

For years, she was an avid and accomplished bowler. Writing poetry for her family and friends brought her much joy. However, Betty's greatest joy was taking care of and spending time with her family. There was always a "favorite dish" on the table, depending on which child was coming home.

After retirement, she and Mike began spending their winters in Arizona. They cultivated many new and lasting friendships under the Bouse sun. In the off season, they enjoyed camping at Wallowa Lake, the Oregon coast and family time at Larry's cabin.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents; parents; stepmother; half-brother, Gary; stepsister, Patricia; two infant half-sisters; and her beloved grandson, Brett and great-grandson, Koty.

Betty and Mike enjoyed one of the most loving marriages we were blessed to witness. They were always together, including their final walk home. They held hands as Betty went to her Lord three days prior to Mike's passing. She also leaves to mourn her stepbrother, Roger; daughters: Darla (Kim) Wolcott, Dana (Tom) Arenz; stepsons: Larry (Julie) McMichael, Terry (Therese) McMichael; stepdaughter, Sandra Spicher; 9 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren.

The closing lines of her poem read…. For the memories you've created have to me become a treasure, and in the twilight of my years, I'll look back with a smile and ponder on all the good things that made it all worthwhile.

Now we, her family and friends, are left to treasure the memories she created. She will be sorely missed.

Mike and Betty will be laid to rest with Legion graveside rights on June 6, 2025, at 10:00am, Hermiston Cemetery. Services at First Christian Church, Hermiston, Oregon to begin at 11:00am. Luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Hermiston American Legion Post 37, at 500 W. Parker Rd., Hermiston, OR 97838 or First Christian Church, at 775 W. Highland Ave., Hermiston, OR 97838.