Beatrice Hale
February 26, 2012
Beatrice Marie (Boone) Hale was born March 24, 1920, near Holland, MI, to Rev. Edward and Mrs. RoseEtta Boone. She went to her eternal home in Heaven on February 26, 2012.
The Boones moved from the Holland area to Grand Rapids when Bea was a child, then in 1937 relocated to Des Moines, IA. At age 17, Beatrice sang and played guitar on “The Boone Family” Christian radio broadcast heard early each morning on KRNT, and later in 44 states on WHO. The sisters’ trio of Beatrice, Olive, and Beulah was a favorite with their listeners. As a young lady, her soprano voice inspired many who heard Beatrice over the air or in live performances. Her most requested solo was “His Eye Is on the Sparrow.”
In 1946, following World War II, Bea was married to Lester Hale. They were blessed with two daughters to whom she passed her love for Jesus Christ, her passion for music, her servant spirit, her “can-do” attitude and a deep caring, not only for loved ones, but for anyone in need.
Bea and Les, along with Bea’s sister and husband, Beulah and Dan Copeland, owned Boone’s Book and Bible Store, opening in 1943 to distribute music, books and merchandise requested through the radio program. Bringing joy through her smile, a warm welcome, and spiritual encouragement, Bea worked at Boone’s for over 50 years until her retirement in 1993. Selling Bibles was her greatest enjoyment, and she used her expertise regarding translations, paraphrases, bindings, fonts and papers to help guide customers in their purchase. Boone’s is now known as Wellspring Christian Resources.
The name “Beatrice” means “one who brings joy,” which was clearly evidenced in Bea’s life in serving her family and through church activities. Her daughters appreciate her consistent positive outlook and selfless example of Godly principles. She was an exceptional children’s teacher - when “Aunt Bea” spoke, the children listened and learned. The characters in her stories came alive as she taught through props and engaging visual aids. Family members, children and the aged were frequent beneficiaries of her thoughtful acts of love and service.
After retiring, she began each day by walking at the community center and meeting her friends for coffee where she was the “life of the party.” As always, she exhibited genuine care for each person; no one was a stranger to Bea.
In June 2010 she moved into The Life Center where she continued to serve others and bring joy to her new friends - those living with her as well as the staff caring for her. The family wishes to thank The Life Center’s Memory Care staff for their loving attention to Bea and the way they met her needs with respect, compassion, and perfection - and to her friends at Evangelical Covenant Church who have been her spiritual support.
Bea is survived by two daughters, Marsha Hale and Brenda (Loren) Long of Ankeny, grandchildren Aaron Long of Arlington, VA, and Alyssa (Ryan) McDonald of Des Moines, precious great-granddaughter Eliza McDonald, sister Beulah (Dan) Copeland of Lakeville, MN; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by Lester, her husband of 43 years, her parents, and her sister and husband, Olive (Leland) Roesink.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 - 6:45 pm on Tuesday, February 28, at Evangelical Covenant Church, 2625 Hubbell Avenue in Des Moines, followed by a 7:00 pm celebration service, also at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to her church’s Entrance Accessibility Fund.
Online condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Jerry and Virginia Adams
03/01/2012
We always enjoyed our Sunday morning visits with your Mom! She was always so joyful so you always felt better after receiving her greetings. We just read about her early years of singing and working at the Book Store. Wished we would have known her then too! What a wonderful blessing she has been to us and to so many others.
Tim, Kim, Tate, and Connor Roesink
02/29/2012
So sorry to hear of Aunt Bea's passing but we know she is rejoicing in Heaven with Jesus! I know Grandma was thrilled to see her and the two of them are awaiting the arrival of the rest of us! Please know you all are in our thoughts and prayers. She was part of a wonderful family legacy that we cherish and thank God for each day.
Mrs. & Mrs. Ardean Rowland
02/29/2012
Marsha & Brenda,
I don't remember how many times Aunt Bea called to find out how everyone
was. Sometimes she would call to inquire about Kathleen.
Yes, she always had an upbeat attitude.....I don't remember her ever being
down.
I can remember how many times my husband and I would go to the Boones Book
& Bible Store to try and find some music, etc. I never knew a time that
she didn't give it her best in trying to find whatever it was that we were
looking for.
One thing about her "Home" going, she is now with the man she loved and
cared for during their married years!!
Our love to you and your families,
Fontalee & Ardean
Ron and Bonnie Roesink
02/28/2012
To one of the most beautiful Christian women we have ever know. Aunt Bea you will be greatly missed but never forgotten for that magnificent smile and a personality to match. God used you in mighty ways and your rewards are surely great as you enter the pearl;y gates singing and rejoicing as you did throughout your life. Thank you for your support and kindness. We love you Ron and Bonnie Roesink. Nephew and wife.
Marilyn & Kim McIntire
02/28/2012
My mother, Marilyn, a fellow resident of the Iowa Jewish home enjoyed your mother Bernice and her daughters. My mother's mother name is Bernice. She misses your mother and the kindnesses both Marsha and Brenda extended not only to your mother but to the other residents. Marilyn thought you composed a beautiful obituary and appreciated the enlarged print in the paper. Your mother, Beatrice, will surely be on the fast track to heaven with her husband Lester and her family.
We extend our sympathy,
Kim McIntire
Jack & Lisa Hale and Family
02/28/2012
Brenda and Marsha, Sorry to hear of your loss. I always have fond memories of when we were kids running around that big house during the Holidays. Now she can be with Uncle Les.
XO
Jack
Barb DeHaai
02/27/2012
Marsha, Brenda, and family members -
I knew your Mom for such a short period of time but she was such a gem. She always had a smile on her face and was happy to see everyone. Her love of God was so evident. God Bless each and everyone of you.
Barb
Karen Clayton
02/28/2012
Brenda and family,
I was sorry to learn of your mother's passing. What a lovely tribute to her you have presented in her obituary. She sounds like she was truly an exceptional being. My intent is to see you this evening. Please know that I you are are in my thoughts. Losing a mother, even if she had a long well lived life is a very difficult time. Take care dear friend. Karen.
cindy
02/27/2012
Beautiful tribute to a beautiful, godly woman.....She finally went "straight up". See you when calls me Home, Bea!!!!!