Betty Jane Parkhouse

On Friday April 10th at 101 years of age, our beloved mother passed peacefully, gaining her wings and reuniting with loved ones in heaven. Betty Jane was born on January 25, 1925, in Halstad, Minnesota, to Hallie and Rollina Garrett. At the age of two, she moved with her family to Grandin, North Dakota, where she was raised alongside her sisters, Patsy and Barbara, and attended school.

She married Robert Parkhouse. Together they built a life in Fargo, North Dakota, where they raised their five children: Judy, Jan, Rick, Cheryl and John.

Betty began her working years at the Wheel Inn Café and later worked at NDSU serving banquets. She also cleaned homes and offices in the Black Building, block Six, and the former Eagles Club. She was known for her love of baking – visits to her home were always greeted with the comforting aroma of something fresh from the oven. An early riser, she often had bread rising before her children left for school.

She had a passion for dancing, and, in her younger years, she and her husband were regular participants on the show Polka Party. Betty also enjoyed bowling, spending time at the lanes twice a week, earning numerous trophies, and traveling to tournaments. Above all, she cherished time spent with family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Hallie and Rollina Garrett; her sisters, Patsy (Duane) Hestbeck and Barbara (Donald) Graalum; her in-laws, George and Cecelia Parkhouse; her brothers-in-law, Ben Parkhouse and Bill Parkhouse; her sisters-in-law, Beverly (Robert) Iwen and Donna (Willard) Jones; her daughter, Judy (Charlie) Rourke; her sons-in-law, Byron Parker Sr., Charles Barker, and Dennis Gorden; her great-grandson, Mathew Charles Rourke; and her great-great-granddaughter, Stella Marie Lupien.

She is lovingly remembered by her children: Jan Barker of Fargo; Rick (Andrea) Parkhouse of West Fargo; Cheryl Gorden of Hawley, MN; and John (Donna) Parkhouse of Fargo; as well as 16 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and 24 great-great-grandchildren.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to HIA Hospice of Fargo for their compassion and care during this difficult time.

Memorial Service:  2 pm Friday, April 17, 2026, at West Funeral Home in West Fargo.

Visitation:  1:30pm to 2pm

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

westfuneralhome.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Betty Jane Parkhouse, please visit our floral store.