Elizabeth "Betty" A. Simants

Elizabeth Ann “Betty” Simants, age 86, of Palisade NE, a beloved, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend, passed away on July 30, 2020 at McCook Community Hospital.

Betty was born to Cletus V. Wells and Gladyce (Bridgmon) Wells and graduated from Palisade High School in 1952.

She was united in marriage to Richard A. Simants in San Diego, CA, on July 8, 1955. The couple was blessed with three children; daughter, Patricia and sons, Richard and Dan.

Betty enjoyed traveling, she especially loved her salmon fishing trips to Alaska and visiting her sister in California. She liked to bake and spend time with all her family.  She also enjoyed cross stitching.  Betty was a member of the Palisade Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department for many years, at age 59 as part of her training she repelled from the Palisade elevator. After her retirement she was made a lifetime honorary member of the fire department.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Richard Simants, brother in law, Lee Wurzer, and stepfather, Don Myers.

Those left to celebrate her life include her daughter, Patricia (Gary) Hanken of McCook NE; sons, Richard Simants of Palisade NE, and Dan (Heather) Simants of Fairbanks, AK, five grandchildren; Josh Simants, Dennis (Kristin) Decker Jr, Randy Decker, James (Renee) Baxter and Rebecca Baxter, and five great grandchildren, Trace Decker, Mia Decker, Khaliah Granillo, Elina Decker and Drew Baxter, brother, Bob (Marlane) Wells, and sister, Carol Wurzer as well as numerous nieces, nephews and friends.