Betty Daniels, 81, a fifty-year resident of Colorado Springs, passed away from a short illness on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. She was previously from Bruce, WI.
Betty Ann Callies was born on September 13, 1943 to the late Henry and Dagne (Johnson) Callies in Glenwood, Minnesota. She married the love of her life, Ronald Orion Daniels, on August 14, 1965.
Betty knew from a very young age that she wanted to be a teacher, setting her sights on making a career in education. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin at River Falls in 1964, she moved to Colorado where she started her 40-year teaching career. Betty began teaching at Academy School District 20 when she moved to Colorado Springs. She received her master’s degree from Adam State College in 1984 and was very proud to be part of the inaugural team of educators at Eagleview Middle School when it opened in 1986, remaining there until her retirement. She believed strongly in the value of a good education and was very passionate and committed to being the best teacher, receiving several awards throughout her career.
In her retirement, her favorite pastime was being “Nana” to her grandchildren and all children in her extended family. Betty was referred to as “Nana” by so many. She also enjoyed selling antique glassware in a booth she operated with her family at a local antique store.
She is survived by her son, Ron Daniels (Kim); her daughter, Bethany Olkowski (Mike); her brother, Jack Callies (Emma); her grandchildren: Darius Daniels, Marcos Lopez, Erynn Olkowski, Ryann Olkowski, Kamryn Olkowski, Amber Harvey (Justin); her great-grandson, Roland Harvey; and several Callies nieces and nephews.
A private memorial service will be held later in Phoenix, AZ.
Jude Malloy
11 Oct 2024I was sorry to hear that Betty passed away. She was a wonderful teacher and just a good person. IMy condolences to all of her family. She will be missed.
Linda Thompson
11 Oct 2024Betty was the teacher every child should have! Betty loved her students and did everything that she could do to help them be successful. She was one of the people that helped make Eagleview home. I am so sorry, Beth, your mother was always so gracious and kind.
Arlene Morton (was Svoma)
12 Oct 2024I am so sorry to hear of Betty’s passing. We were childhood friends while growing up in Bruce, Wisconsin. My sister and I lived across the street and spent a lot of time at Betty’s home. I haven’t seen Betty for many years but have never forgotten her and I have always wished we could have gotten together to reminisce! I am sorry to hear of her passing. My sympathy to her family also.