Betty Jean Bernasek Moore, née Stinson, also affectionately known as Betty Boop, passed away on September 27, 2023, at the age of 80 in
Normandy Park, Washington. Born on December 1, 1942, in Spokane, Washington, Betty's early years were marked by a vibrant spirit and a passion for the performing arts.
Betty graduated from Cleveland High School in Seattle (Class of 1961) and furthered her education at Yakima Community College. Her career began on the dance floors of renowned shows, sharing stages with legendary entertainers such as Marlene Dietrich, Sammy Davis Jr, Ella Fitzgerald and Nat King Cole. Betty's love for dance never waned, as she later transitioned to teaching, sharing her passion and techniques with many aspiring dancers.
Beyond her professional achievements, Betty was a devoted lover of the arts, regularly attending opera and ballet performances. She had a special fondness for films, with "Harold and Maude" and "Fargo" being among her favorites. Her joy was most profound in the company of her family, especially during visits and gatherings with her daughters and grandchildren, where she was a source of love and inspiration. She loved spending time with her friends Nancy, Roberta, Sandy, Elita and Debbie.
Her favorite game was Rumikub.
Raising her daughters with her first husband Rod Bernasek had many challenges.
Betty is survived by her loving husband Charlie Moore, daughters, Natasha Vohs (Jason), Marisa Brandon (Dwan), Erika Palm (Steve), Georgi Bernasek (Jay), Heidi Melchiorre (Rick), and Mardi Lambert (Leo); her grandchildren, Quincy and Willow Vohs, Skylar, Gavin and Ethan Palm, Jared and Corrina Brandon, Corrine Lambert (Nate), Kourtney and Kyle (Jordan) Melchiorre; stepdaughter, Emma Moore (Barry); and step-grandson, Mathew Wenger. She was preceded in death by her mother, Ina Gustin; father, Everett Stinson; and brothers, Donald and Gary Stinson.
Betty's life was a beautiful performance, from the stages she graced as a young dancer to the personal moments she shared with her family. Her legacy will continue to inspire and resonate within the hearts of those who knew her and were touched by her creativity and warmth.
She was greatly loved and will be missed by so many people.
Published by Legacy Remembers on Oct. 26, 2024.