Bette Merle Haugan

Bette Merle (Young) Haugan passed away on Nov. 18, 2023 at her residence with Family at her side.

Bette, was a truly devoted and beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great “Ama”.  She is survived by her 4 children and their spouses, Mark and Carla Haugan, Marla and Kim Elliott, Rodger and Lisa Haugan and Chris and Sue Haugan; six grandchildren, Geoff, Shawna, Kasey and spouse, MariCarmen, Bryce, Anders and Annika and three great grandchildren, Jessa, Jasper and Aina.

Bette was preceded in death by her spouse of 70 years, Kenneth “Ken” Paul Haugan and her parents, Vivian and Marlyn Young. 

Bette was born in Wolf Point, Montana, on May 24, 1928, to Vivian and Marlyn Young.  She grew up on a ranch in Granville, North Dakota, where she developed a deep love for horses and dogs. 

She became a Lab Technician at Minot State College where she met her husband, Ken.  They were married in 1950 and began their family a couple years later.  Over the years Bette, Ken and family resided in North Dakota, Texas, Alberta (Calgary), Oklahoma (Tulsa), making their final home in Kalispell, Montana in 1993. 

Bette was a member of Epworth United Methodist Church, Sons of Norway, local Doll Clubs and the American Doll Society.  She shared her love of her antique doll collection at several National Doll conventions.  Bette enjoyed volunteering at local hospitals in Calgary and Kalispell.  She and Ken enjoyed many outdoor activities including skiing and camping with family often in the Seeley Swan and Glacier areas.  Bette loved their involvement with The Sons of Norway, often helping with lefse making, bake sales and the annual Lutefisk dinner.  She continued her love of “feeding” family and friends and anyone who came to visit well in to her later years.  Bette was an avid supporter of all her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren’s activities (basketball, track, soccer, art, band, science fairs, choir, golf etc.).

The family wishes to thank Dr. Habel for his many years of compassion, care and support, as well as care provided by Wellife Assisted Living, Brendan House TCU, most recently Expressions/Prestige and many devoted in-home caregivers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Salvation Army/Northwest Division

or the charity of choice.

A small private family gathering will take place in the Spring.

A small private memorial celebration of life will be planned in early spring.  Friends are encouraged to visit website www. Buffalohillfh.com to leave condolences for family.  Buffalo Hill funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family.