Marlin Oliver Betts

Marlin Oliver Betts began his life's journey in Entriken, PA in 1947.  Son to the late Olive (Hess) and Edwin Betts, Marlin had a hunger for adventure that lasted throughout his entire lifetime.  As a young man he served in the United States Army and was very proud to do his part to honor and protect his country.  Following his time in the Army, he continued to travel and see the world.  He would often talk about his time spent out west and the magnificent beauty of it, although no landscape compared to parts of Vietnam, he would recall.  He and his wife Ruth (McGinnis) Betts, who precedes him in death by just a few months, had an incredible ability to recycle and re-purpose just about anything you could imagine.  They were always creating truly unique décor for their home.  They both saw the beauty in things, even when they may have been discarded as useless junk.  Marlin had that same outlook on life in general and despite the circumstances, still was able to walk away finding some beauty in his time spent in Vietnam.  Marlin is survived by four children; Marlin Betts, Jr., Brian Betts, Christine Betts, and Joaquin Villareal.  He is also survived by three step children, Bill Mills, Doug Mills, and Shell Boyd.  Also, numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Marlin was a lover of music and played many instruments, but was most noted for his guitar playing.  Many fond memories were made sitting around the campfire or kitchen table with good company, good spirits, and good music.  He was really good at just being present and fully engaged in what was happening in each moment.  That is what made those times at their house so special... it was always relaxed and inviting, a place where you could unload your troubles and walk away having had some great laughs, heard some great music, and learned at least one piece of trivia you didn't know before.  He loved crossword puzzles and game shows, and almost always had the right answer!  Along with being a trivia buff, he was an expert botanist and landscape architect as well. He was fearless and all knowing when it came to all things plant related.  There was truly nothing he could not grow!  Marlin always felt very connected to and drawn to the Native American philosophies of life.  They share a belief that “There is no death.  Only a change of worlds.”  Marlin left this world on March 3rd to embark on his next big adventure, no doubt continuing to take in the beauty and majesty along the way!  He will be greatly missed.  Until we meet again...Love your family and friends  There will be a Celebration of Life held at Petersburg American Legion, Post 150, 117 King Street, Petersburg, Pennsylvania on Saturday, March 9, 2019, at 1:00 PM with military honors will be accorded at 1:30 P.M.

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