On June 22, 2021, our beloved “Nana” Betty Lou Lovato (Schrader) passed away at the age of 77. Betty Lou was born Oct. 18, 1943, in Chehalis, Washington, to Leo and Gladys Marie Schrader (Carter).
She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Gladys Schrader, her brother, Jimmy Schrader, and grandson, Barry Lloyd Lovato Jr.
She leaves behind her three loving sons: Barry Lloyd Lovato Senior, Byron “Leo” Lovato and Thomas “James” Lovato. She also had 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
She married a non-commissioned naval officer, which gave her and her boys the opportunity to live in Louisiana, California, Guam, Colorado and Oregon.
Betty Lou graduated from Centralia High School in 1961 and attended Centralia College earning an associate’s degree in business accounting. After taking on various jobs including banking, cosmetology and administrative work at a federal center in Colorado, she decided on a career as an engineering technician at Bonneville Power Administration, where she retired in 1996.
During her retirement years, she moved back to her hometown of Centralia and spent her time doing what she loved most, taking part in family activities, gatherings and making memories with her loved ones. She had a passion for quilting, embroidery and gardening. She enjoyed watching old horror movies and anything science fiction, with “Star Trek” being a favorite.
As a mother, grandmother and friend, she will be remembered for her wisdom, contagious laugh, witty sense of humor and her ability to uplift and encourage the younger generations. She was quick to offer positive inspiration to her grandchildren. A giver of herself, she tried to help family members who were in need.
Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the source of her joy. She was loved by many. We miss you already, mom.
The celebration of life will be held at noon on July 25, 2021, at Millersylvania State Park in kitchen No. 1. There will be a potluck to follow.
