Betty Duggan obituary

Betty Frances Duggan passed away on May 31, 2024 at North Port Rehab and Nursing Center in North Port, Florida. Betty was born on April 21, 1928 in Des Moines, Iowa to John and Pearl (Couch) Dennis. Betty graduated from East High in Des Moines and attended classes at Drake University. On September 20, 1952 she married Earle Duggan of Davenport, Iowa. The Duggan’s made their home in Des Moines where Betty was employed at the State Capitol. Betty worked at the Capitol for five years before joining the staff of the Des Moines Public School District for 28 years, seven years as a secretary to Adult/Community Education at Harding and Woodland and 21 years as a teacher associate at Hoover. Betty was the church organist at Union Park Christian Church. Betty and her husband Earle both taught Sunday School at Union Park Presbyterian. Betty was also active in bringing Special Olympics to the State of Iowa as the Chairman of Special Events. Betty was also active in the Republican Party of Iowa.
After retirement Betty and Earle enjoyed boating on Lake Pepin and many Caribbean Cruises. They also enjoyed their summer home in Lake City, Minn. They were lifetime members of the Lake City Yacht Club. Betty organized the Venetian Boat Parade in Lake City for 16 years and was known to pester boaters until they agreed to participate. They made their permanent residence in Punta Gorda, Fla. and enjoyed meeting friends at McDonald’s every afternoon to solve the problems of the world.
Betty is survived by her sister Marilyn Wilson of Memphis and many nephews and nieces; special friends Mark Lutjen and Jim and Celia Dailey. Betty was proceeded in death by her husband Earle of 71 years, her parents, four sisters, and five brothers.
A private graveside memorial for Betty and Earle will be held in Des Moines in September.