Bettyann Allen

Bettyann Henrietta (Lafrenz) Allen passed away peacefully on August 8, 2024, at Grandview Nursing Home in Marshalltown, Iowa.

A memorial service will be held in her honor at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at Trinity Lutheran Church in State Center, Iowa. Following the service, a private interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery in State Center. Memorial contributions can be made to the Ernest & Bettyann Allen West Marshall Foundation Scholarship. For more details or to share your condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call (641) 844-1234. The Mitchell Family Funeral Home is entrusted with the care of Bettyann and her family.

Bettyann was born on June 5, 1929, in Laurel, Iowa, to Louis Henry Lafrenz and Gertrude Dorothy (Ehler) Lafrenz. She graduated from Laurel High School in 1947. During her career, she worked in various offices, including Security Bank, where she met Ernest Allen through his sister, Mildred. Bettyann and Ernest were married in December, 1951, beginning a loving partnership that would span over six decades. In 1954, she was baptized, further solidifying her commitment to her Christian faith.

Bettyann had a remarkable talent for playing the piano, often playing by ear. She also found joy in quilting, creating beautiful pieces for her family and with friends at church. She was a dedicated volunteer at West Marshall Elementary and was deeply committed to her Christian faith. Above all, she cherished her family and took great delight in watching her grandchildren grow.

Bettyann leaves behind her children: Mark (Jody) Allen of Grinnell, Iowa; John (Deb) Allen; Jill (John) Byerly of State Center; Jack (Patti) Allen; and Mary (Kevin) Lazard of Urbandale. She is also fondly remembered by her 17 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law Lillian Hineman, Nancy Lafrenz and Mary Allen.

Bettyann was preceded in death by her parents, all of her siblings, and her devoted husband, Ernest.

Visitation: There will be no formal visitation.