Arnold Otto Betcher

Peacefully, with family at his side, Arnold Betcher went to his heavenly home on September 29, 2021.

Arnold was born on June 10, 1933 near Minitonas MB to Robert and Hilda Betcher, the fourth of eight children. The family lived in the Roaring River district, where he attended the country school. He rode a bicycle 6 miles to get to high school in Minitonas.

He began his first job when he was 15; Fred and Arnold worked on building bridges in the Roaring River area, making 87 cents an hour.  Over the years, Arnold had several jobs, including working at several car dealerships, Sears, and the Co-op store, before starting Betcher Agencies Ltd  in 1960. He worked there for 44 years, until his retirement in 2004. Arnold was very involved in the community and his church; was on several executives in the community, including the golf club, Rotary club, and town council. He was also chairman of the building committee for Temple Baptist Church. He served on the board of Heritage Manor for many years as well.

Arnold was raised in a Christian home and accepted the Lord as his Savior at an early age and was baptized at the age of 12.

He met Elsie Lepholtz at church; they were married on July 10, 1957 in Minitonas. They took up residence in their first home in Swan River on 8th Avenue South. They were blessed with three children; Ron, Brenda and Kevin. The family enjoyed many vacations together and have many happy memories from their cabin at Wellman Lake.

Arnold was never idle, always active, and overcame several health issues.  He enjoyed curling, golf, traveling, doing projects around the house and yard, hunting, fishing, and gardening. He was also known to be a carpenter and handyman.  Later in life, he enjoyed making Christmas angels, which can be found coast to coast.  Arnold loved spending time with his nine grandchildren; he spent many hours at school concerts and sporting events, cheering his grandchildren on. One of his greatest joys was being a great grandparent. He loved spending time with friends and always looked forward to games night.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Elsie;  Son Ron (Wendy: Lindsey; Kayla, Matt & Georgia; Bryce & Katie) Daughter Brenda (Dan; Ashton, Victor & Violet, Sophie & Will; Taylor, Steve, Jones & Max; Brooke & fiancee Fuad) Son Kevin (Victoria; Alexandria, MacCoy, Jackson) Sister Elsie Martens, Brother George (Lorna), Sister Rita Hettig, Brother Harvey (Aneta) and many in-laws, nephews and nieces.

Predeceased by parents Robert and Hilda, brothers Walter (Marion), Fred (Erna), John and Ben. In-laws Dieter Hettig, Jake Martens, Gustav & Christine Lepholtz, Helen (Hank) Boldt, Tillie (Albert) Bredin, Chuck Elbert; Ruth Stuerle

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