ST. JAMES–Elizabeth “Betty” Odegard, age 99, formerly from St. James, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, passed away on May 9, 2025.

Funeral Service will be held on June 9, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Albion Lutheran Church, rural St. James with Pastor John Odegard officiating. Visitation will be June 9 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. prior to the service at church. Interment will be in Albion Lutheran Cemetery. Northview-North Mankato Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorials are preferred to the Alzheimer’s Association or Albion Lutheran Church.

Betty was born on December 30, 1925 to Nick and Rose Beckius. Betty was united in marriage to Orrie Odegard on December 15, 1944. They farmed near Godahl, MN, until they moved to St. James in 1967. She worked at the Good Samaritan Home in St. James for 20 years.

Betty was a kind and gentle soul. Nothing mattered more to her than her family. She proudly raised six boys who no doubt tested her patience with their hijinks. She always had a warm hug and lots of sweets when family came to visit. Betty loved when her house was full of family during the holidays, savoring the abundant bounty she had prepared.

Betty enjoyed crocheting, collecting dolls, gardening, playing cards, ice cream, and baking for neighbors and family. Betty was an entrepreneur, scouting auctions and garage sales for good deals and hosting her own garage sales. She enjoyed traveling to Spider Lake for fishing and camping, Las Vegas, California, Hawaii, and around Minnesota. Betty loved dogs, especially her dear, Lisa. She made the best macaroni and cheese and earned the nickname “Cookie” because of her legendary cookies, scotcheroo bars and more.

Betty is survived by her son, Roger (Susan) Odegard; daughter-in-law, Cindy Odegard; grandchildren, Erik (Sarah) Odegard, Amy (Darwin) Hoffman, Kim (Russ) Zellmer, Melanie (Andy) Matson, Allie (Adam) Halgren, Melissa Haggenmiller, Toby (Kristin) Odegard, Tonya Douglas, John (Jenna) Odegard, Andy Odegard, Macey Odegard, Jesse (Erin) Odegard, Mickey Odegard, Ben (Stephanie) Odegard, Katie (Ryan) Visher; and great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Orrie; sons, Michael, David, Marlin, Curtis, and Allen; and great-granddaughter, Alana Janae.

Betty will be dearly missed by her family, friends, neighbors, and many people who’s lives she touched. She joined her family in heaven for Mother’s Day.

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