Obituary for Frederick William "Fred" Betters

Frederick William Betters, lovingly known as Fred, passed away on April 10, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on February 13, 1948, in Keene, New York, he was the son of Milton Betters and Ellouise Hagene Betters.

Fred graduated from Lake Placid Central School in 1967. Shortly after, he proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1968 to 1969. He was honorably discharged and returned home as a disabled Vietnam veteran. For his bravery and sacrifice, he was awarded both the Purple Heart and the Silver Star—testaments to his courage and unwavering commitment to others.

Following his military service, Fred dedicated 36 years to the New York State Department of Transportation, retiring as a DOT Supervisor. His work ethic, leadership, and loyalty earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike.

Fred lived a life rich with purpose and joy. He loved hunting, golfing, and spending time with his grandchildren, who were the light of his life. He was an active and proud member of Masons Lodge 834, a disabled veteran, and a member of the American Legion. His presence in the community was steady, kind, and always helpful—he was the person who showed up whenever help was needed.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Deborah A. Betters; his daughters Jennifer Betters and her husband Daniel Almanza, and Samantha B. Ano and her husband Trevor Ano; and his beloved grandchildren Ethan Ano and Jacob Ano. He is also survived by many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and extended family who loved him dearly.

Fred was predeceased by his parents, Milton Betters and Ellouise Hagene Betters, as well as his sisters Anna Marie Betters and Mary (Gary) Saltmarsh.

Services will be Held Monday, May 11th at 11:00am at North Elba Cemetery, Old Military Rd., Lake Placid, NY. The Lake Placid Masonic Lodge, # 834 will hold a Masonic Prayer Service followed by Rev. Derek Hanson, pastor of the Adirondack Community Church. Military Honors will be provided by Lake Placid American Legion, Post 326 and the United States Army. The M. B. Clark, Inc., Funeral Home in Lake Placid, NY is in charge of arrangements. Please visit www.mbclarkfuneralhome.com to share a memory, upload a photograph, sign the online guest book or leave condolences for the family to cherish.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Masons Scholarship Fund Lodge 834 219 Station Street Lake Placid, NY 12946

Fred will be remembered for his generosity, his strength, and his ability to make friends wherever he went. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the love he shared so freely.

He was the kind of man who showed up. If someone needed help, he was there without hesitation. If a community needed support, he stepped forward. If a friend was struggling, he offered his time, his hands, and his heart. His life was defined by service, compassion, and an unshakeable belief in doing good for others.