Elizabeth "Betty Lou" Kasten

Elizabeth Louise Kasten “Betty Lou” (lovingly known as Boo) was born a twin (Sister Elaine) to Louis Aurel and Betty (Smelko) Todut in Sharon, PA on April 6, 1938. She passed peacefully in the arms of her husband of 62 years in the evening of April the 23rd 2025.

Betty Lou (87) was her own pilot, and was loved and respected by all that truly knew her. Betty Lou grew up near the small town of Brookfield, Ohio at Yankee Lake. She and her family spent a lot of time at that lake which was owned by her Uncle’s family. She graduated from Denver University in 1961 with a master’s degree in Ecology and Zoology, earning Phi Beta Kappa honors. That same year, during a celebratory trip to France, she met Dave, who was stationed with the U.S. Army in Versailles, France. They were introduced by her college roommate, Mary Meissner (LaRowe), who said, “I know a fella in Paris who can show us the sights.” From this blessed union came a son, Tod (born in Versailles, France), and daughter Elaine (born in Wolf Point, MT).

Betty Lou and her husband, Dave, did everything together and worked extremely hard to succeed in anything they set their mind to. In 1963, after Dave’s discharge, they moved to Brockway, Montana. They started, from scratch, their successful farm, ranch, and family. Betty Lou did not grow up a farm girl, but that soon changed. As a young bride, she quickly learned the ins and outs of ranch life—how to pull lambs and calves, milk cows, drive trucks and tractors, and tend to everything that comes with building a successful agricultural life on the plains of eastern Montana. She was a substitute teacher, gave swimming lessons to many youngsters, and raised two children—all while working side by side with Dave on their business. She kept meticulous books, and even into her 80’s she was still helping guide calving and branding. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren were the lights and flowers of her life. Every family member was unique and appreciated in their own special way.

Betty Lou was deeply active in her community. She served on the Montana Health Systems Agency Eastern Sub-Area Council, the Mid-Rivers Telephone Board of Trustees, and was honored as a Montana State University Kellogg Fellow. A dedicated public servant, she passionately represented her region in the Montana House of Representatives from 1989 to 2001. Many of the representatives she served with greatly respected her, valued her input and her thorough, factual approach to solutions. There will be a lasting memory of her impact on the State of Montana as a true staunch conservative.

She gave freely of her time as a community volunteer, lending her talents and energy to many different clubs, causes, and local efforts. She was a very bright and strong woman—always willing to lend a hand, always leading by example. She instilled in

her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren the golden rules of a good life: to work hard, to speak honestly, and to support those you love.

Her beloved nickname, “Boo,” was a gift from her first grandchild, Bart. As a toddler, Bart would hear Dave calling out “Betty Lou!” across the corral and interpreted it as “Boo.” The name stuck, and to this day, and forever, she is and will be known affectionately by all of her grandchildren as Boo.

Boo loved gardening and tinkering in her yard. She had a gift for growing beautiful flowers and thriving vegetable gardens, even in Montana’s harsh landscape. She also enjoyed cooking and baking, which she taught many of her grandkids (and daughter-in-law) to do.

Boo was preceded in death by her father; Lou, mother; Betty; brother-in-law Bernie Bernatowicz, and all of Dave’s 13 siblings (brothers and sisters-in-law). She is survived by her loving husband; Dave, her sister; Elaine Bernatowicz, her son Tod (Diane) Kasten and daughter Elaine (Mark) Peiffer. Her cherished 6-pack of grandchildren: Bart (Brittani) Peiffer, Peggy (Nick Stonebraker)) Layton, Michael (Taylar Stout) Peiffer, Kelsey (James) Crockett, Dr. Loren PharmD (Brady) Jensen and Ryan (Lilianna) Kasten. Over 60 nephews and nieces, and, 14 great grandchildren that she loved dearly, all who will carry-on for her-- and for themselves as she would remind them,” Reach for the stars”.

Boo will be deeply missed by her family and friends and especially by her partner, Dave. But with Jesus’s promise, we rejoice in the Easter joy, its hope and His grace that we will see Boo again in the garden with Him.

Funeral service will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1400 B Ave, Circle, MT. A graveside service will follow, with lunch served afterward at the CCM grocery store in Circle. MT.

Flowers are welcome. If preferred, donations in Betty Lou’s memory may be made to the Redwater Community Foundation, PO Box 1145, Helena, MT 59624, to honor her legacy of giving back to our community.

The family extends heartfelt thanks for the many calls, thoughts, and prayers during this time.