Betty Petefish

Betty Petefish, 85, of Ankeny, Iowa, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026 at Norwalk Nursing and Rehab.

She was born in Ogden, Iowa on August 26, 1940 to her parents, Clarence and Belva Fairchild.

Betty dedicated her life to caring for others, spending her entire career as a cook before retiring from Broadlawns Medical Center in 2000. Through her work, she nourished not just bodies, but hearts as well.

Outside of work, Betty found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved being outdoors, soaking up the warmth of the sun, and could often be found browsing Walmart for little “trinkets” that caught her eye. She was also a devoted fan of Johnny Cash, whose music brought her comfort and joy over the years.

Betty had a playful spirit and a great sense of humor. To those who knew her best, she was a lifelong 19-year-old at heart. She even joked about one day marrying Blake Shelton, a dream that always brought a smile to her family’s faces.

Above all, Betty will be remembered for her warmth, her humor, and the love she gave so freely to her family. Her presence will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Betty is survived by her loving family, including her sisters Linda Hummel and Barb Doyle (Kevin); her brother Robert Fairchild; her daughter Angie Taylor (Mark); her son Shawn Petefish; and her grandson Jake Taylor.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Charlotte King and Sharon Witmer; and brother, Jerry Fairchild.

Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Avenue in Des Moines.

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