Betty Nissen's Obituary
Betty June Nale Nissen, whose big heart made an impression on everyone who knew her, died on December 26, 2011 after a difficult 12-year battle with Alzheimer's. She was 72. Betty was born in San Antonio, Texas on October 30, 1939 to Belle Beatrice Stepp Nale and Julian Nale, Jr. After their divorce when Betty was three years old, she and her mother moved to Houston where she resided until her death.
Betty attended Houston Gospel Tabernacle (now Elim Church) where she met her mate and husband of 53 years, Dale E. Nissen. From their first date when she was 13-years old until her last day, Dale loved and adored her. Betty graduated from Austin High School in 1958 and married Dale two months later.
To this holy union were added: Peggy June Nissen Thompson and her husband Ron Thompson, Cathy Dalene Nissen Francis, Joan Ellen Nissen Swingler and her husband Steve Swingler, and Michael Dale Nissen. Betty and Dale were blessed with seven grandchildren: Travis Thompson, William Thompson, Perry Francis II, Valerie Francis, Scott Swingler, Grant Swingler, and Sarah Swingler. Betty and Dale were foster parents for DePelchin Children's Center for more than seven years. During that time, they provided 63 children with love, protection, and a stable home. For two of those years, Betty and Dale were one of the original seven Therapeutic Foster Families selected to care for the special needs of physically and mentally abused children.
In addition to her husband, children, sons-in-law, and grandchildren, Betty is survived by her brother Robert Nale of Lebanon, Indiana, half-brother Wayne Nale of Carrollton, Texas, and a large, loving circle of family and friends.
The family wishes to thank the staff and care givers at Silverado Senior Living, Kingwood, for their love, understanding and excellent care over the past two and a half years. They have been a source of great support and comfort to Betty and her family.
Please join the family to celebrate her life at Elim Church, 3200 South Richey, Houston, Texas, on Friday, December 30 at 10 am. Family viewing will also be at Elim Church on Thursday, December 29 from 5 pm to 6 pm followed by friends from 6 pm to 9 pm.
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