Elizabeth "Betty" Thonen Salwasser was born on December 7, 1923, to Albert and Nellie Thonen. She passed away peacefully in Clovis, CA, on Saturday, April 18, 2015. She married Mervin James Salwasser on January 8, 1944, and they were married for 63 years. Together they raised three sons, Hal, Mark and Ron. Betty lived a passionate, energetic life, often revolving around the kitchen and tending to her flowers and vegetable gardens. She taught us all to enjoy cooking and the importance of staying connected to the soil. She and Merv lived a rich and wonderful life instilling in their children and grandchildren the value of seeing the world, experiencing different cultures, and living life to it's fullest. Many summer days were spent preparing cookies, cakes, and other good eats for the staff at Kings Canyon Middle School. Betty assisted her husband, Merv, to create a family atmosphere with the staff under his principal leadership. Over the years, they maintained close friendships with many of the faculty members. Giving back to the community was an integral role during her life. She gave much time and energy to Sunnyside Garden Club, La Comida Guild, and First Congregational Church, to name a few. Betty never met a stranger and would often share life's finest lessons with others. Betty was a beautiful wife, friend, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She will be remembered as a good and generous person. She was preceded in death by her parents, Nellie and Albert; her brother, Albert Jr.; her husband Mervin; her son Hal; and her eldest grandson Barry. Betty is survived by her sons, Mark and Ron; six grandchildren, Barrett, Adam, Zachary, Sarah, James, Kaija; and eight great-grandchildren. A Private Burial Service will be held.