PAUL SMITHS - Betty Ida VonSoosten Rockefeller, 94, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Aug. 18, 2012.

Betty was born Feb. 20, 1918, in Brooklyn to Carl VonSoosten and Lina Behrens VonSoosten.

Betty resided in New York for a number of years. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Columbia University, in addition to becoming a registered nurse.
She bravely served our country in the Army during World War II. During her service she met and married Paul David Lawrence. He died at sea two months later.

Betty married William Avery Rockefeller on Feb. 18, 1960. After Mr. Rockefeller passed away in October 1973, Betty relocated to Clearwater, Fla. She resided in the Clearwater area until the time of her passing.

Betty loved to write. She was also an avid bird watcher and member of the Audubon Society. Betty was also involved in numerous charitable organizations. Her lust for life was unparalleled and she shared her adventurous spirit with those she loved. Betty was a kind and generous person. The world was a better place with her in it. She will be greatly missed by all that knew her.

She leaves her loving memories to be cherished by her son, Carl Lawrence; grandchildren, Misty Wolf (Xavier), Michael Roberts (Janet), Carla Roberts (Steve) and Paul Lawrence; 11 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Local funeral arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake. Internment services will take place at the convenience of the family at St. John's Cemetery in Paul Smiths. Family and friends can sign the online guestbook at fortunekeoughfuneral