George Betz

On Saturday, March 30, 2019, George Betz passed away on Maui surrounded by his family.

George was native of Watsonville. He was active in 4-H and FFA. He attended Freedom School, Watsonville High (1960), Cal Poly, San Luis Obisbo (1964), with a BS in Large Animal Husbandry and Farm Management and a ROTC scholarship. He was a commissioned officer in the US Army in South Korea and was honorably discharged as a Captain.

George worked for West Coast Farms in Watsonville and Bruce Church in Salinas for over a decade, farming up to 2000 acres in both Arizona and the Salinas Valley. Later, he became an independent real estate broker of agricultural properties. George was also a columnist for the Register Pajaronian for over a decade, a guest columnist for the Californian, and a radio host for "Eye on AG." For decades, he was a member of Rotary, Christians in Commerce, and the Farm Bureau, served on the Watsonville Water Board, and was in active in various church communities.

George enjoyed extensive travel. He was also a proud sponsor of 4-H, FFA, Boy Scouts, and supported local and international Christian ministries. He had a strong and dynamic faith in Jesus Christ. All who knew him will remember his great love of life and dedication to his wife and family. George lived life passionately and has gone to enjoy eternity with his Heavenly Father.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick Betz Jr. and Bettie Betz of Watsonville, and his brothers David and Roger Betz.

George is survived by his wife, Marilyn Betz, of 17 years, and children, Tiffany (Betz) Witt and Ryan Betz; his siblings, Fred Betz III, Richard Betz, Barbara (Betz) Allen, Lynda (Betz) Powell; his grandchildren, Eldon, Sofia, and Taylor Betz, and Jack Witt; and his step-daughters, Heidi (Schmidt) Vincent and Stephanie Schmidt, and their families.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2019, at 11:00 am, in Monschke Hall, Twin Lakes Church in Aptos. Refreshments will follow. The family will hold a private burial.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you look your loved ones in the eye and tell them you love them, give your children and grandchildren a hug, and share your smile with someone.