Betty L. Virden, age 85 of Valparaiso, Indiana, passed away Thursday, October 27, 2011 in Valparaiso.

She was born July 2, 1926 in Peoria, Ill., to Colin and Lucille (Alexander) Monahan, who preceded her in death.

On March 7, 1944 in Oakland, California, she was married to Jack C. Virden, who preceded her in death in 1990.

Betty was a resident of Chesterton, Ind., for more than 30 years. She also resided in Florida for eight years and Valparaiso for ten years.

Betty is survived by her sons, Joseph (Jennifer) Virden of Pinellas Park, Fla., Stephen (Brenda) Virden of Chesterton and Jack (Dawn) Virden of Chesterton and daughters, Cheryl (Chuck) Costa, Carol (Robin) Todd and Jacqueline Sherwood, all of Valparaiso.

She was beloved by 14 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her brother John Monahan and sister Virginia Eilts.

Betty loved to fish and was an avid bowler. She enjoyed playing bingo at the Chesterton American Legion and was known as Bingo Betty. She also enjoyed the casino boats and Las Vegas.

Betty and her husband, Jack, enjoyed dancing together and were known for their dancing talents.

Funeral services will be held on Wed. Nov. 2, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home, 517 Broadway, Chesterton, Ind. with Rev. Michael Porter officiating.

Visitation will be held on Tues. Nov. 1, 2011 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Cremation will be performed by Heritage Crematory, Portage, Ind.

Memorials may be made to www.giveforward.com/weloveyoucheryl

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.EE-FH.com

Posted 10/31/2011