Betty Lee (Rueber) Baumgartner

Betty Lee Baumgartner, 88, of Columbia, South Carolina, formerly of Strawberry Point, Iowa, died on Tuesday, July 31, 2018.  She was born on July 23, 1930, in Oelwein, Iowa, the daughter of Robert and Zada (Woods) Rueber.  Betty spent most of her life in Iowa and relocated to Columbia several years ago to be closer to her family. 

On September 21, 1974, Betty was united in marriage to Donald Baumgartner at Westgate, Iowa.  Betty attended Gustavus Adolphus Nursing School.  She was a retired Licensed Practical Nurse who had worked at Strawberry Point’s Lutheran Home.  Betty also used her nursing abilities as an EMT for the community.  She was a former member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 218, where she served as the first president for two years.  Betty enjoyed quilting, as well as crocheting and had donated many quilts to Lutheran World Relief. Betty, along with her husband, Don, were very active with the Lions Club and American Legion.  They never missed an opportunity to place American flags on the graves of our fallen heroes on holidays and other special occasions. Betty deeply loved her family and especially enjoyed their time with one another.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Pam Helland (Larry) of Columbia, South Carolina; four grandchildren, Hans (Stephenie), Kaari, Katie, and Rebekah Helland all of Columbia, South Carolina; one great grandchild, Sophia Helland; her two sisters, Dee Snodgrass and Pat House; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. 

In addition to her parents, Betty was also preceded in death by her husband, Don Baumgartner; daughter, Barbara Raffel; and her brother, Melvin Rueber.

The family requests that memorials be directed to Ewalu Bible Camp, 37776 Alpha Avenue, Strawberry Point, Iowa.

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