May 13, 1929 – January 30, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Betty Jonker who peacefully left us at the age of 95 on January 30, 2025. Betty was born in Hull, Iowa on May 13, 1929. Betty lived a full and vibrant life dedicated to her family, her passion for music, and her community. She graduated high school in Bellflower, California in 1946. She then moved to Oskaloosa, Iowa, with her parents. Soon after that she attended Calvin College and then also attended Central College in Pella, Iowa. She also taught 5th grade at Roseland Christian School in Chicago, Illinois. During that time, she met Leo and they were married in 1949 in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Shortly after that, they moved to Minnesota and made that their home. As a beloved piano instructor, Betty inspired countless students over her many years of teaching, instilling a love for music that resonated throughout her community. In addition to her work as a piano instructor, she dedicated many years to playing organ and piano for her church, where her musical contributions enriched the worship experience and brought joy to the congregation. She played for Grace Christian Reformed Church in Inver Grove Heights for over 25 years. In 1978, she attended the University of Minnesota and received her degree in Piano Performance. She also taught piano, played organ and accompanied the church choir at New Life Church, and New Life Baptist Academy in Woodbury, Minnesota for 20 years. Betty was also involved in various activities, including selling real estate, where she fostered connections among those in her community.

Betty was the proud mother to five children, Loren, (Julie), Leanne, Karen, Kurtis, (JuliAnne), Brad, (Paula), and a cherished grandmother of 15 and great-grandmother of 30. Her family was her greatest joy and she cherished very moment spent with them, creating lasting memories filled with love and laughter. Betty will be remembered for her kindness, her unwavering support, and her infectious love for music. She leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. Throughout her life, she demonstrated an unwavering faith in God, sharing her love for the Lord with everyone around her.  She is now at peace in the arms of her Lord and Savior.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Leo James Jonker, and her parents, Peter and Helen Bouma. Also preceded in death by her sister’s Judy and Jackie, granddaughter Laura, and son-in-law Bill.

Funeral service June 28th, 2025 at 1:00 at New Life Church of Woodbury, 6758 Bailey Rd. Woodbury, Minnesota. 55129.

In lieu of flowers— memorials preferred to: New Life Church, with designation to the Betty Jonker Memorial, checks should be payable to New Life Church.