Betty Lou Gott

Betty Lou Diel Gott was born on July 29, 1927, in Eskridge, KS. She graduated from Highland Park High School in Topeka KS. While attending school, she was encouraged by her future father-in-law, an employee at the school, to correspond with his son, Robert Dean Gott who was serving in the navy during World War II. Betty and Robert married in Alma, KS on August 25, 1947. They resided in Manhattan Kansas for many years. Betty was not only a devoted wife and caregiver to Dean, who passed away in 2021, but also a loving mother to their three children and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Betty passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, in Lenexa, KS, at the age of 98.

Throughout her life, Betty held various office positions. Her interests were diverse. She enjoyed golfing with friends at Stagg Hill Golf Course in Manhattan, spending time with her family, reading, traveling, quilting, doing crossword puzzles, competing with family members in word games, bird-watching, fishing, gardening, following KSU sports, and watching BritBox. She was a master at making pies, homemade ice cream, and margaritas. She was a talented painter and quilter, and her artwork will survive as her legacy.

Betty is preceded in death by her husband, Robert; her parents, Fred and Blanche Diel; seven siblings and their spouses; her granddaughter, Brandy Menzel; and her son-in-law, Bruce Yarnell.

She is survived by her daughters, Vicki Yarnell and Robin (Steve) Beckley, and her son, Mike Gott, her grandchildren, Jason (Amy) Beckley, Shelly (Steve Southard) Beckley, and Kori Beckley, and great-grandchildren Brooklyn Yarnell, Cash and Dylan Beckley, and Lucas and Resa Southard.

Sharp as a tack, even at the age of 98, Betty's mind remained clear. She succeeded in maintaining her independence until her passing. Her resilience and spirit were an inspiration to those who knew her. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00am, Saturday, May 30, 2026 at Sunrise Cemetery in Manhattan, Kansas.