Harley Bettin

Harley Henry Bettin, 89, of Truman and a beloved member of the community passed away Monday, Aug. 19, 2024, at St. Marys in Rochester. There will be a memorial service at Zaharia Family Funeral Home on Saturday, Sept. 7, at 10:30 am. A public visitation will be held on Friday, Sept. 6, from 5–7 p.m., where family and friends will come together to pay tribute to his life. Online condolences may be left at www.zahariafamilyfuneral.com.
Born in Sherburn to Fred and Alma (Hilken), Harley was one of four children raised and educated in Trimont. He graduated high school before joining the Army to serve his country. An individual with a heart of gold, Harley was known for his kind and selfless nature, always willing to lend a helping hand to those around him.
Harley derived joy from the simple pleasures in life, like feeding squirrels and birds, nurturing his flower garden, escaping to the peaceful serenity of the lake and assisting with family fish fries. His unwavering love for literature and spending quality time with his cherished grandchildren brought him immense happiness throughout the years. Most recently since moving back to Truman into assisted living, visits from great-grand girls Hayden and Harper brought him so much joy.
Having dedicated over three decades of his career to the agricultural industry as the grain elevator manager at Truman grain elevator, Harley’s strong work ethic and dedication were admired by all who knew him. In 2002, after retiring, he and Joan relocated to Grand Rapids to be closer to their youngest daughter’s family, cherishing every moment spent with loved ones.
Harley is survived by his loving daughters, Kim (Roger Rieck) Krueger of Truman, Kelly Bettin of Hudson, Wis., and Kristi (Dave) Basham of Grand Rapids; beloved grandchildren, David (Jaime) Krueger, Michael (Sarah) Krueger, Matthew (Amanda Sullivan) Krueger, Sheldon Rieck, Dalton Bettin, Dylan Basham and Drew Basham; great-grandchildren, Kullen, Liam, Kaide, Gwen, Ellie, Hayden and Harper; great-great-granddaughter, Azzara; sisters-in-law, Marvel Meyer and Joan Bettin; brothers-in-law, Marland (Dick) Meyer and Jerry (Jeannie) Meyer; special caretaker, Kris Wilson; and many other extended family and friends.
Harley was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Joan; and siblings, Eldon Bettin, Joye Weaver and Nila Stevens.
As we bid farewell to Harley, let us remember his generosity, warmth and unwavering commitment to those he held dear. May his legacy continue to inspire kindness and compassion in all those who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Wounded Warrior Project or the Local Food Bank of America are appreciated.