Jeffrey D. Bettenhausen "Jeff", age 38, of Manhattan, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at his home. Survived by his loving wife of 11 years, together for 16 years, Sarah (nee Handorf) Bettenhausen, his children Daphne, Jeffrey Jr. "J.R.", and Leonidas "Leo", his parents Duane and Jeannette (nee Anderson) Bettenhausen, his brother Christopher Bettenhausen, his mother-in-law "Ma" Patti Handorf, his sisters-in-law Brandi (Eli) Geiss and Andrea (Ryan Burns) Handorf, nieces and nephews Dylan and Duncan Bettenhausen, Julianna Handorf, Evan, Emily, and Veronica Geiss, and Brody and Mason Burns, numerous aunts and uncles, nieces, nephews and friends, his faithful canine companions "Dana, Hank, and Teddy" and many other small furry friends. Preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Eugene and Maryann Anderson, his paternal grandparents Marvin and Patricia Bettenhausen, his father-in-law Bruce Handorf, his cousin-in-law Eugene Handorf and his two canine companions Sammy and Brutis. Jeff was a graduate of Lincoln-Way Central Class of 2004. He worked for his family business for 11 years Bettenhausen Construction and moved on to work for Airy's Inc until the time of his passing. He was proud to work at Airy's and created a bond with great coworkers that made him appreciate his hard work with friends every day. Jeff was also a proud member of the Laborer's Local 2 Underground Union. Jeff played hockey, baseball, and volleyball. He continued to play hockey and volleyball through adult park district leagues. Jeff also played darts on the Gallaghers league and video games with his kids. He enjoyed the Chicago Blackhawks, the Bears, and the White Sox. Jeff loved traveling around and camping in their R.V. (and stopping at Cracker Barrel). They adventured all over the United States as a family and with lifelong friends. He loved movies and could carry on entire conversations through movie quotes. Jeff was an amazing dad who had an individual connection with each of his kids. Jeff had a special daddy daughter relationship with Daphne (his "Kitty Bear"), attending dances and encouraging her to pursue her interest in anything artistic. J.R. was game to do anything with his dad, Jeff always knew that he had a willing partner to do just about anything. Leo looked forward to dad bringing him his milkshakes, playing Fortnite, and bantering back and forth with their similar quick wit. Jeff was a guy who didn't say no, constantly encouraging the kids to join in anything that interested them and letting his wife bring home pets and house projects that would keep him busy. Jeff loved playing in their yard and swimming in the pool with his kids. Jeff will be remembered for his unique laugh, his goofy personality, and the fun he brought with him wherever he went. Jeff was a supporting and loving husband, a devoted dad, a supportive son, and a loyal friend who will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Visitation for Jeff will take place on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 from 4-8:00 P.M. at Forsythe Gould Funeral Home. Funeral Service will take place the next day, Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. with an additional hour of visitation from 10:00 A.M. until the time of his funeral service. Per Jeff's wishes, cremation will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations to the family to help cover educational expenses in the future would be most appreciated.

Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL 60442, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com.