Betty Elaine Olsen's Obituary
Our Beloved Mother, Grand and Great Grandmother, Aunt and Friend, Betty Elaine Hopper-Kaler-Olsen passed away on Tuesday, August 11th at her home in Honolulu, Hawaii, surrounded by her dear family. She bravely fought a battle with cancer and heart disease yet always had a smile. Other family members living on the mainland are praying for her happy reconnection with the love of her life, her husband Bjarne Olsen. May they share in each other’s friendship and affection forever.
Betty was a free spirit. Although grounded by her love of children, she was on to always feel happy and open to new things with a loving heart for all that she met.
Betty was born July 1926 in Topeka, Kansas to Fred J. Hopper and Eunice Roberta Cook. She left Kansas in search of adventure while still in her late teens to become one of TWA’s earliest stewardesses. Her petite size and gigantic smile won her the admiration of all that she provided comfort to on the flights. She also worked for Western Union, often receiving classified telegrams about WWII. While living on the Big Island, she did volunteer work for AARP and the Kona Outdoor Circle.
Betty is survived by her son Glenn Kaler (Patrice), Heidi Olsen, Karen Poe (Glenn) and Richard Olsen (Anne). Grandchildren Jason Poe (Mae), David Lindquist, Lisa Kaler (Manny), Brian Kaler (Kellie), Marina Kaler, Andrew Kaler, Eric Poe (Helaine), Theo Olsen, 5 great grandchildren and 2 daughter-in-laws Rebecca Lee and Linda Kaler.
She was preceded in death by husband Bjarne Olesen, ex-husband Willard B. Kaler, sons Loren and Craig, sisters Frieda and Dorothy, brother Robert, and her parents.
She has asked that she have her ashes blown into the wind over Hanauma Bay so that she will, again, be as free in death as she always was in life. Her inspiring disposition along with her sweet, gentle and kind heart will be remembered forever by those that knew and loved her.
The family wishes to express a special thank you to Heidi Olsen who lovingly cared for Betty the last few years. Heidi’s sacrifices for so long did not go unnoticed. Also to Grandson Jason and wife Mae, both in the nursing profession and often at Betty’s side to keep an eye on her while also enjoying birthdays, holidays and allowing Betty to have young Senala around to keep her young, too.
We also would like to thank St. Francis Hospice of Hawaii for their wonderful care of Betty, enabling her to stay in her home during her final months.
Tribute written by Betty’s niece, Debra Rakes.
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