Beatrice "Bea" Louise Hungenberg

Beatrice Louise Hungenberg, born on May 23, 1929, lived a full 95 years.  Born to Louise and William Fry, Bea enjoyed life to the best of her ability.  She was an only child but had a family rich with cousins to fill her time and get into mischief. She was raised as a “proper lady,” but could hold her own in any tennis match, golf match or sporting event. She LOVED to compete at many things and, she loved to watch others compete, as well.

Bea attended Ft. Collins High School and later enrolled at the University of Northern Colorado (The State Normal School of Colorado), receiving a degree in Physical Education. Bea met Donald Edward Hungenberg, who enjoyed her love of the outdoors, her competitive spirit and her love for the Lord.  Bea was married to Donald Hungenberg March 18, 1952. They raised three boys, Michael, Paul and William on their farm in East Greeley. 

As Don farmed their small acreage of various produce with his father, Edward and brother, Kenneth, Bea built a beautiful home that was filled with good food and lots of activity. As the boys grew older, they were expected to help with the farming, play competitive sports, be able to hunt and enjoy the outdoors.  Bea would always have a good hot meal ready for them, during the long farming days. She loved to try new recipes from the local newspapers, Bea’s cookbook is a treasureher family will cherish. But if you had asked for a recipe…you had to be prepared to have a recipe with at least one ingredient, slyly, left out! 

When she wasn’t cooking, freezing and canning food, Bea was involved in the activities at University High School, where the boys attended Preschool through Graduation. She also taught Sunday School at the Covenant Church and was active in her County Extension Group. 

The family later worshiped at the Greeley Wesleyan Church and Bea was involved in the Women’s Ministries, while Don was on the Church Board. They were involved with moving the little church on 9th Avenue to the present church, off of 35th Avenue, in 1981.

As their sons spread their wings, Bea enjoyed learning to do needlepoint.  Every family member has a beautiful wedding sampler, or needlework masterpiece from Bea. 

Bea took up golfing at the age of 50! Her competitive spirit and her desire to be the best, was ever present in her goal of perfection. She loved golfing with her family and making memories on various courses. She was 9-Hole Club Champion at Eaton Country Club for many years. There have been rumors flying around, that she had a healthy “golf-temper”…and, that there are still golf clubs at the bottom of several golf course ponds! She also enjoyed various Bible Studies, a Bridge Group with dear friends, and working with the wonderful ladies at the Assistance League for many years. 

As the farm grew, Don and Bea would become “snowbirds” after Thanksgiving holiday, traveling to Arizona.  The lemon, grapefruit and orange trees became their new “farm.” They loved playing golf and met a wonderful new group of friends. They returned back to Greeley each year to help with farming in the spring. They enjoyed watching activities the grandchildren were involved in, including football, basketball, and baseball games. Bea and Don were always there to cheer for Eric, Emily, Jared, Jason, Jordan and Kathy.  But, Bea personally made sure they all knew how to golf. She LOVED teaching and golfing with her grandchildren most. They are memories that will last for a lifetime.

“Beatrice, Grandma Bea, Nana-Bea, Bea-dee and Mother,” stayed on the Family Farm until her eyesight became a problem. She didn’t like leaving her home or yard or the bustle of the harvest. She always enjoyed Corn Day, Christmas, a good meal and 

Birthdays for the great-grandchildren. She moved to The Greeley Village in 2022 and continued to be a “spark plug” with the residents, visitors and workers.  Bea enjoyed a good joke, an adventure story and listening to David Jeremiah.  She would “tear-up” when a visit from friends or family ended and they left her apartment. She wasn’t afraid to speak her mind or ask questions. She loved her family, the Lord, and her community. She believed in hard work, good manners and frugal living.  She had a personal relationship with Christ and had many friends and family that have gone on to their reward, that she will be greeted by.

We are rejoicing that she can see and hear so much better in heaven. She was of the “Greatest Generation” and we will miss her dearly.  On August 2, 2024 she closed her eyes for the last time.  She left us here on earth, “to help prepare a place in heaven ~ that will meet her standards”…for the rest of us. 

She is preceded in death by her husband, Donald Edward Hungenberg.  She is survived by Michael  (Joy) Hungenberg, Emily (Russell Haythorn) Savannah and Holland, Eric (Erin) Tate and Rowan, Paul  (Pam )Hungenberg, Jared (Chelsey) Kinzley and Brayden, Jason (Cassandra) Collins, Callie and Theodore, Jordan (Elaine) Jack, Will and Adalyn, Kathy (Brett Myatt) Camdyn, Adriann, Jeremiah and Creed and Bill (Tracey) Hungenberg. 

Respecting Bea’s wishes, there will be a Private Family Service at Linn Grove Cemetery. 

Memorial gifts may be given to “The Weld Food Bank” and “The Community Outreach Center” in the care of Adamson Life Celebration Home, 2000 47th Ave., Greeley, CO 80634.  Condolences may be shared at AdamsonCares.com.