Betty Joan Zanger's Obituary
Betty Joan Zanger passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 3, 2024. She was born to the late Patrick Eugene Foley and Irma Evelyn Graber Foley on October 7, 1944 in Albany, Oregon. Betty developed her tenacity and strength as a middle child between two brothers, Dale and Larry, on a small farm in Albany. She attended Madison Elementary School and graduated from Albany Union High School in 1962. Soon after, she married Richard Colson in 1963 and eventually moved to California. The couple established roots in Cupertino where they had two children, Kelly Lynn and Eric Richard. Betty instilled character, values, and love into the family and launched a successful real estate career in the booming Silicon Valley in 1977. She joined Referral Realty and met Carl Zanger. Along with Carl, Betty balanced work and united a family with Carl’s three children Colby, Chris, and Carrie. On a family trip to Hawaii, Betty and Carl married in 1994. Betty and Carl spent most weekends in Discovery Bay boating, golfing and entertaining family and friends. She always brought people together and provided a friendly, comfortable environment for all. Behind her fun-loving personality was a fierce and determined woman. Betty conquered breast cancer and contributed to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. She and her daughter, Kelly, participated in the 3 day walk across 60 miles and camp nights on Crissy Field. Years later, Betty was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Drawing from her Irish heritage, she continued with long walks and golf matches with Carl, family, and friends. Goodbye to a role model for anyone who knew her, an unforgettable loving and caring mother, and devoted spouse to Carl. We love you!
Betty is survived by her husband, Carl; children, Kelly (Alan) and Eric (Donna); step-children, Colby (Damon), Chris (Rachel), and Carrie (Susan); grandchildren, Michael (Monica), Matthew, Clare, and Grace; step-grandchildren, Hayleigh, Rory, Blake, Grayson; and many loving relatives and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America in honor of Betty Zanger.
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