Obituary: Elizabeth Jane Kollas “Betty”, 95, Hood River

Elizabeth Jane Kollas, “Betty” to most, passed away Saturday, January 27, shortly after her 95th birthday at the Hood River Care Center. Born in Rush City, MN, Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Fred & Freda Peterson, twin brother at birth, and her sister Jeanette Johnson.

After living for a brief time in Los Angeles, Betty moved to Hood River in 1951 where her parents had retired. There she met Alphonse “Bud” Kollas, Jr. whom she married in 1954. They raised their 4 children on the family farm atop the hill overlooking the valley where she remained for the next 69 years.

Betty loved music: a fan of Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Marty Robbins. She played guitar, piano, organ, and accordion by ear. She often accompanied her father and uncles at Polkas in her youth. She also was a passionate crafter and had numerous sewing, knitting, crocheting, and other projects going at any time.

Betty was deeply involved in the Hood River Adult Center, working diligently to move the old Senior Center to its new location off Brookside Dr and serving on the Board for many years. She volunteered a tremendous amount of time ensuring the meal programs and thrift store were well established to support the community. Her grandchildren often accompanied in these efforts and embrace her commitment to community service and a passion for thrifting to this day.

A real “people-person”, Betty was also very involved in the local Rebekah Lodge and embraced the Odd Fellow's commitment to reach out to her community in Friendship, Love, and Truth.

Betty is survived by extended family including her children; Keith “Lennie” Kollas, Ken (and Darlene) Kollas, Linda (and Peter) Shames, and Michelle (and Jose) Calderon, grandchildren; Karen (and Jaime) Loomis, Nicole (and Justin Griffeth) Shames, Danielle Shames, Ana (and Greg) Kolberg, Raquel Calderon, Gabriella Calderon, and Vicente Calderon, and her great-grandchildren Dillon Loomis and Piper & Leah Griffeth.

Memorial contributions could be made in Betty’s name to the Hood River Adult Center and an Open House celebrating her life will be held Sunday, January 11 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 3381 Kollas Rd, Hood River, OR 97031

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center • 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031.  Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.