The family of Lillian Eva Betts is deeply saddened to announce her passing on July 18, 2026, at the age of 92. Born in Andover, SD, on June 13, 1934, Lillian was the beloved child of Henry and Alvina VonOsten.
After graduating from the University of Minnesota, she married Douglas Betts and taught high school English in Lewiston, MN, until dedicating herself to raising a family. They spent a few years in Great Falls, MT, before settling in Rochester, MN. She had a passion for reading and knowledge, sharing that as a Great Books leader and Sunday school teacher. She loved gardening and finding antique treasures at rummage sales. She was honored for her service to the Salvation Army in Rochester, MN, with a Volunteer of the Year Award for diligently sorting the book collections. Nearing retirement, she and Doug moved to Bozeman, MT, where they enjoyed the beautiful mountains and welcoming community.
She will be lovingly remembered by her daughters, Kay (George) Weaver, Karen (Cary) Mielke, Annie (Philip) Thiessen, and grandchildren, Benjamin Mielke, Cameron (Caityana) Mielke, and Mary Weaver.
She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and brother, Robert.
A funeral service will be held on Monday, August 10, 2026 at 10:30 am at Woodbury Lutheran Church in Woodbury, MN with a visitation beginning at 9:30 am. She will be laid to rest beside her husband at Millett Cemetery in Sumner Township, MN at 2:00 pm following the service.
The family wishes to thank TC from Home Instead Bozeman for her dedicated compassion.
