Betty LaRae Park Bay

Betty LaRae Park Bay was born to Ila Jenny and Dennis Park on July 29th, 1931. Her family included three siblings – Vince Park, Joyce Park, and Donna Frampton.

From a young age, Betty noticed the beauty of the earth around her that many just take for granted. She however, took great joy from things like the smell of her garden after a rain or a perfect rose bud or a row of newly bottled peaches on a counter popping as each jar sealed.

She loved music and being a hard worker, she earned enough money at age 14 to take the train from Ogden to Salt Lake City weekly for violin lessons. She practiced and excelled as a violinist. At age 18, she married her beloved Bud (Earl) on December 14th, 1949 in the Salt Lake Temple. Together, always together, they set off on a great adventure.

Betty attended the U of U and took in ironing to help Bud complete his Engineering degree. They raised a family of 6 children – Becky, Kevin, Richard, Carrie, Jon and Tom. They gave them a stable, loving, adventurous childhood. Together they bravely took their family on a 2 year USAID mission to the Philippines where Bud laid the groundwork for a vital lifesaving dam.

They were a humble, hardworking couple, generous with their time and resources, always trying to do good. They forgave everyone of every slight or offense. They were true examples of how to be Christ-like. They loved their family fiercely.

They both suffered physical pain and frailties which they endured without complaint. Even in advanced age and before Betty’s stroke they maintained agility of mind. They always tried to keep up with current events and the changing world. They were open minded, able to change old opinions.

After 68 years together, Bud died January 22, 2018 and Betty quietly but intensely grieved his passing. Now they are together again and all is as it should be. Bud and Betty were good people. They were truly loved and will be missed.

The family expresses gratitude to the wonderful staff at The Ridge Cottonwood and Canyon Hospice for their tender care of our mother.

A visitation for close friends and family will be on Friday, March 31 at 10:00 AM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East. Guests are encouraged to use parking at the north side of the building near the main entrance. A small service will begin at 11:00 AM with interment following at 12:00 at Elysian Gardens, 1075 East 4580 South.

Please check back soon for tribute slideshow.