Betty Denise Schwisow

Betty Denise Schwisow, 94, died from complications of a stroke on July 26, 2021 at Columbia Basin Hospital in Ephrata, Wash. She was born on October 1, 1926 in Ritzville, Wash. the daughter of Fred and Florence (Martin) Schaefer.

Betty graduated from Ritzville High School class of 1944. Following graduation she married Donald Schwisow, October 14, 1945 in Ritzville, Wash. They settled on the Schwisow family farm near Sprague, Wash. They were married for 70 years until Donnie’s passing in 2015.

Betty was an active member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church for 75 years. Betty enjoyed singing in the church choir, teaching Sunday School, was church treasurer, served on the church council, local and state ELCW boards, and making many quilts with the church quilting group.

She also served with the Adams County Election Board and as an American Red Cross Volunteer. Betty loved to sew and knit, making clothes for her family and numerous beautiful afghans.

She loved spending time with family and friends, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Betty is preceded in death by her husband Donnie, son Alan, parents Florence and Fred and brothers Bill (Martin) and Jack.

Betty is survived by her son Paul (Florence) Schwisow of Ritzville, daughters, Dawn (Chris) Jones of Moses Lake, and Jean (Rocky) DeBuhr of Spokane Valley. Grandchildren Stephanie (Kevin) Jones-Lee, Matt (Jenn Heckler) Schwisow, and Brian (Leah) Jones and great-grandchildren, Eli and Charlotte Jones.

A memorial service was held July 31st at 11:00 am at the Emanuel Lutheran Church located at 206 South Division in Ritzville, Wash. A private burial will precede the memorial service. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Vanessa Behan Crisis Nursery, Spokane, Wash.