Obituary — Bette Jane Boatmun, September 20, 2024
CONCORD, CA — Bette Jane Boatmun, a trailblazing leader in the water industry and an advocate for community service, passed away peacefully at her home in Concord on Sept. 20.
Born in New Rochelle, N.Y., to Otto and Elizabeth Heidig, Bette earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Russell Sage College and later obtained a master’s degree from Holy Names College.
In 1962, she married Charles Boatmun, and in 1965, the couple moved to Concord, where Bette’s passion for community engagement flourished.
She dedicated 46 years to serving on the Contra Costa Water District (CCWD) board of directors, where she played an integral role in improving water quality and accessibility for residents. Initially appointed in 1974, she became the longest-serving board member in the district’s history.
She led numerous initiatives, including the development of the Lifeline program for low-income households, modernizing water treatment facilities and promoting water use efficiency. One of her most significant achievements was overseeing construction and expansion of the Los Vaqueros Reservoir, a vital project that continues to ensure a sustainable water supply for the region.
Boatmun’s contributions extended beyond local water management. She served as president of the Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) and held various leadership roles in the League of Women Voters, American Association of University Women and Soroptimist International. She was also a fierce advocate for equal pay and diversity in the workforce, paving the way for future generations of women in leadership.
In 2001, Boatmun was named the California Assembly’s “Woman of the Year,” and in 2020, she received ACWA’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Her legacy is further immortalized by the Bette Boatmun Conservation Garden, which educates the public on water-wise gardening and conservation.
Bette is survived by her two sons, Christopher and Antony, and her longtime partner, George Egan. Her dedication to community, leadership in the water industry and unwavering support for social equity will be remembered by all who knew her.
Friends and family celebrated her life at a service on Oct. 10 at the Pleasant Hill Senior Center.