Betty McAleer

Betty McAleer, of Ivins, passed away March 14, 2026, of natural causes at age 93. Betty was born in Chicago to German immigrants Wilhelm Linder and Elizabeth Hupfel in 1932. She spoke only German until beginning school. The family later moved to Bensenville in rural DuPage County, where she grew up as an older sister. Betty met George McAleer on a blind date as a junior in high school. She graduated from Bensenville High School in 1951 and spent the summer in post-war Germany with an uncle before marrying George in July of 1952. George and Betty lived in suburban Chicago for 40 years, raising 3 children, building two houses, and enjoying many childhood friendships that lasted their entire lives. Betty was a full-time homemaker until the children were fairly independent, then worked for Jewel Foods in the bake shop for a number of years. Betty and George retired to Ivins in 1995, quickly becoming part of the Kayenta community they quickly grew to cherish. Betty embraced retired life with quiet enthusiasm. Whether she was at water aerobics, knitting with friends, gathered around a bridge table, or worshipping at Spirit of the Desert Episcopal Church, she found joy in connection and routine. She carried a subtle, often unexpected sense of humor and a gentle independence that defined her. As the years brought new challenges, Betty remained determined to stay engaged and connected, especially after George’s passing in May 2021. With the support of her family, she continued to nurture the relationships and rhythms that meant so much to her. In August 2025, Betty moved to The Retreat at Sunbrook. From her room, she could see Red Mountain — a view she held close, often imagining that just beyond it was her beloved home. It brought her comfort and a sense of closeness to a place she loved deeply. Betty passed away on March 14, just seven months later, leaving behind a quiet legacy of resilience, warmth, and enduring connection. Betty is survived by daughters: Eva (James) Iwicki, of Bella Vista, AR; and Lisa (Jo Ann) McAleer of Ivins, Utah; son: Scott (Julie) McAleer, of Scranton, Iowa; and grandchildren: Tiffany Mousel and Kyle McAleer. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, her younger sister, Carol Kaad, and her husband, George. The family would like to thank the amazing staffs of Renew Hospice and The Retreat at Sunbrook for the excellent care they provided to Betty at the end of her life, along with countless friends who visited, kept in touch, and provided respite care. Thanks also to Hollie Ragland of RDI Creative, for sharing her tribute. Angels are everywhere. No formal memorial gathering was held. The Cremation Center of Southern Utah performed cremation services, and the ashes will be interred sometime in the future in a location yet to be determined. Family and friends are invited to share tributes online at www.SerenityStG.com. Arrangements and memorial tree planting under the direction of Serenity Funeral Home of Southern Utah, (435) 986-9100.