Betty J. Caroline Nielsen

A life-long resident of the Portland area, Betty died peacefully at home surrounded by her family at age 88. She grew up in northeast Portland, graduating from Jefferson High School in 1944 before attending Portland Art Institute. Betty was active throughout her life in numerous civic and community organizations. She was a PTA President at Cherry Park Elementary, president of a civil engineers association, an election judge, a volunteer at Albertina Kerr, a Welcome Wagon representative, and, as a two-time survivor, an advocate for breast cancer patients. She was a long-time co-owner of Second Hand Rose antique shop on W. Burnside, and a member of Summerfield Golf Club. She was avid gardener, golfer, bridge player, traveler and a true "people person" who approached life with a wonderful sense of humor. But above all else was her love of family, an affection spread throughout multiple generations. She was married to Walter J Bushnell from 1947 until his death in 1968. Betty is survived by her husband Melvin Nielsen of Tigard. Two sons: David Bushnell and his wife Ellen of Silver Spring, MD, and Daniel Bushnell and his wife Cathy of Tigard. Four grandchildren; Christina of New York City, Michael of Washington DC, Elizabeth (Loren) Sheets of Tigard, and Jenna of Washington DC. A step-daughter Margaret Barton and her husband Jeb of Portland and a step-son Mark Nielsen of Portland; a niece, Judy Marcum of Longmont CO; and her favorite granddog, Sparky. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Betty's name can be made to Shriners Hospital for Children in Portland.