Elizabeth “Betsy” Aguirre Runner

Elizabeth “Betsy” Aguirre Runner, age 71, passed away Feb. 12, 2013 at her home in Tonopah, Ariz.

She was born Oct. 27, 1941 in Elko, Nev., to Joseph Pio and Amy (Arascada) Aguirre.

Betsy attended several schools graduating from Rawlins High School.

She married Stewart Runner June 4, 1959. They had been married just shy of 54 years at the time of her passing. Betsy and Stewart had lived in Wyoming, South Dakota and Arizona establishing friendships everywhere.

Some of the high points in Betsy’s life were High School Rodeo, Breakaway Calf Roping, Team Roping and Goat Tying. She was a winner at all of these events on a state level. Betsy was active in the community as a 4-H leader for years as well as a member of the Cowbelles, serving in various offices during her membership. She also served as past national president of the American Hereford Auxiliary from 1983 to 1984.

Most important in her life was her family, she was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother.

Betsy was preceded in death by her parents Joseph and Amy and her father and mother-in-law, John W. and Marjorie Runner.

She is survived by her husband Stewart Runner of Tonopah, Ariz., and children: Charlotte (Keith) Melius, of Faulkton, S.D., Raymond Runner of Hayes Center, Neb., Trina Runner (Chuck Willey) of Pierre, S.D., and grandchildren: Brandi Elizabeth and Jori Ellen Melius, Dusty John and Cody Arthur Runner, Randy Thomas, Dereck John and Jessica Rose Burghardt and a brother Dan (Wanda) Aguirre of Prescott, Ariz.

Family services were held in Tonopah at the family home on Feb. 16, 2013.

The family suggests memorial contributions in Betsy’s memory be made to Hospice of the Valley at 1510 E. Flower St. Phoenix, AZ 85014.

Friends may offer online condolences at http://www.wickenburgfuneralhome.com.