Obituary of Betty Ann Preinitz

Please join us to celebrate the life of Betty Preinitz on March 9th at 2:00PM at Lighthouse Field, to be followed with a gathering of family and friends at the Capitola Gardens Clubhouse, located at 1725 46th Ave in Capitola. After fighting a brave battle against cancer, Betty passed away peacefully at her Capitola home on March 5, 2012, surrounded by family and friends. She was 63 years old. Betty was born in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and moved to Santa Cruz County 25 years ago. She was a dedicated health care employee at Pacific Coast Manor in Capitola for many years. Her career in convalescent care spanned over 21 years, and Betty leaves many dear friends, colleagues, and patients who will miss her exemplary qualities of kindness and selflessness. As a youngster, Betty had the opportunity to ride an elephant with her twin sister. Although the experience was not as pleasant for her sister, Betty developed an affinity for elephants, and her collection of more than 500 figurines, sculptures, and photographs, can attest to her love of this magnificent creature. Her favorite pastime was walking with her husband through Lighthouse Field; observing the butterflies and nature's simple beauty. Betty is survived by her husband of 22 years, Richard Preinitz, her daughter, Ann Polhemus-Philp, her sons Justin Preinitz, John Skinner, and her brothers and sisters in Colorado.