Betty Jean Kauk , 91, formerly of Grand Forks, ND passed away Tuesday, June 13, 2023, in Westminster, CO.

Betty Kauk was born January 18, 1932, in Walsh County, ND to her loving mother Agnes Hosna. Her mother was a diligent worker, great cook and fabulous baker over her lifetime. Agnes worked for the Douglas household in Gilby, ND for a period of time and from the age of two Betty soon called them Grandma and Grandpa Douglas. On June 10, 1938, Agnes wed John Vernes and Betty took the Vernes name in her school years growing up as often done in blended families back then. Betty soon had three younger Vernes sisters: Ann Carlson preceded her in death (Richard) and Mary Trosen (Harris) both Trosens preceded her in death. Her younger sister, still living, is Nancy Kammermann (Terry-recently preceded her in death). Betty talked fondly about her loving mother and how her mom would have Betty as a teen deliver baked goods, prepared for local Gilby residence, from her home catered business to earn extra funds. Eventually the whole Vernes family moved to Grand Forks, ND.

Betty met John in her late teen years and fell in love; to eventually marry in Oct 1950. John preceded her in death in Feb 2017 after more than 66 years of marriage. Betty and John lovingly supported each other through the early days of work and raising a family of 7 children. They started their small glass business from home - O&K Glass Co which eventually the business moved out to DeMers Ave in Grand Forks. Betty always said she loved being a mother and they said they had seven wonderful children. Currently all 5 daughters and 1 son live in the CO Denver metro area: Linda, Duane, Diane, Carol, and twins: Sally & Susan. Their youngest son, Mark, still resides in Grand Forks. Betty & John later enjoyed welcoming 14 loving grandchildren (2 of which preceded Betty in death) and the current count of 14 adorable great grandchildren.

Betty was a warm and loving mother, spouse & friend. She & John later retired to Bad Medicine Lake home in MN that they had owned since the early 70's, The Kauk family and extended family enjoyed so many years of fun with Betty and John at the lake as well as in Grand Forks & CO making memories to last a lifetime. Betty was a self-taught artist and continued to always draw inspiration in her art from her love of nature. In November 2015 John and Betty joined their children out in CO where they eventually lived out their remaining years together at a senior living residence until their death. Betty is at peace now in heaven with her loving Johnnie that she so dearly missed with his passing; their union was a true love story for the ages.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Betty's name to the Colorado Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.

Burial: 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 5, 2023, in Memorial Park North Cemetery, Grand Forks, ND.