Betty Lee (Philipsen) Voorhees

Betty Lee (Philipsen) Voorhees, 77, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend passed way December 3, 2024, at home with her family by her side. 

Betty was born on November 21,1947 to Edward and Evelyn Philipsen at Vale, SD. At a young age they lived in Vale, Stoneville and Nisland and then they moved to Sturgis in 1952 where she attended school and graduated from Sturgis High School in 1967. 

On July 3rd, 1975 she married the man of her dreams, Doug Voorhees. They made their home in Whitewood, SD. Together they raised two boys Terry and John Voorhees. Betty went to work at an early age as a waitress at Skelly Truck Stop, she later worked at the hospital. Then in 1972 she began her lifelong career at VA Black Hills Healthcare System. Betty was a very dedicated employee/supervisor. She took pride in her work. Betty was very dedicated to Veterans and made sure everything was done right. Betty retired in 2005. 

Betty loved fishing, golfing, bowling, rummage sales and baking. She enjoyed their home in Pierre and being a snowbird at their home in Mesa. Betty was always behind all the gatherings with friends and family. She was always planning some type of shenanigans. Betty made her home a place where family and friends were welcome. Betty hosted many get together whether it was Sturgis, Pierre or Mesa. Their social circle was filled with love, laughter and cheer, making many memories and lifelong friends. 

Betty was a member of the VFW, Hospital auxiliary, Lions Club and Presbyterian Church.

She was proceeded in death by her sister, Shirley Nohava and her parents Edward and Evelyn Philipsen. 

Betty is survived by her husband Doug Voorhees; Sons, Terry (Linda) Voorhees, John Voorhees, Shawn Bryant; Grandchildren, Ben (Heather) Voorhees, Daniel Voorhees and Ticho Voorhees; Great Grandchildren, Colson, Nicole, Larissa and Daniella.  She is also survived by her brother Roy Philipsen and her sisters Sharon Vinson and Patty Davis as well as numerous nephews and nieces.

The world will be a little duller without her bright smile and the sound of her laughter and love for everyone.

Memorial Service will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024 at 1:30 pm at the First Presbyterian Church, 1319 Junction Avenue, Sturgis, SD. Committal service will follow at Black Hill National Cemetery. 

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kinkadefunerals.com.   

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Rapid City, US
7:40 am, Dec 23, 2024
temperature icon 25°F
overcast clouds
Humidity 83 %
Pressure 1026 mb
Wind 5 mph
Wind Gust Wind Gust: 7 mph
Clouds Clouds: 100%
Visibility Visibility: 10 km
Sunrise Sunrise: 7:01 am
Sunset Sunset: 4:18 pm