Obituary

Betty Ruth Nelson, 99, of Des Moines, Iowa died Wednesday, November 5, 2025 at Valley View Village in Des Moines. Betty was born October 20, 1926 in Des Moines to Wilbert and Ruth (Haskell) Hiatt. The family later lived in Ottumwa, Iowa where she graduated from Ottumwa High School.

Betty was employed as a bookkeeper until the age of 82, most notably for Lancaster Oil and Ideal Ready Mix. She enjoyed art, antiques, flowers and plants, shopping and attending art shows.

Survivors include daughters Nancy Butt, and Linda (Larry) Stumbo; grandchildren Jay (Donna Chesnek) Butt, Gina (Frank) Lopez, Jenny Tesser, Janelle (EJ Ford) Polzin, and Julie (Matt) Hamm; great grandchildren Alec (Shannon Porter) Tesser, Halie (John) Gant, Allysa (Kyle) Fullick, Royce Butt, Lydia (Dakota MacDougall) Polzin, Dylan Polzin, Celeste Lopez, Calista (Jaryn Garza) Lopez, Jacob Hamm, and Lucas Hamm; great-great grandchildren Chandler Fullick, Sophia Fullick, and Maren Gant; sister Delores Overturf; and nieces Sue (Breck) Boggio and Kris (Mark) Anderson.

Preceding her in death were her parents Wilbert and Ruth Hiatt, an infant sister, and son-in-law Skip Butt.

The family is grateful for the compassionate care and support provided by Valley View Village and Unity Point Hospice.

Betty’s graveside committal service will be Monday, November 10, 2025, 11:00am at Des Moines Glendale Cemetery, 4909 University Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50311. Her family will meet other family and friends at the cemetery.

Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel, 6337 Hickman Road, Des Moines, Iowa 50322.


Online condolences are welcome at www.ilescares.com

Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel

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