Betty Ellertson

Betty Jane (Howdahl) Ellertson, 84, joined her loved ones in the Kingdom of Heaven on January 6, 2024.

Born May 5, 1939, in Baudette, MN, to John and Gertrude (Witt) Howdahl, Betty grew up alongside her brothers John, Harold, Carl, Earl, and sister Gladys. After graduating from Baudette High School, Betty met her husband, Darrell, and the two were wed January 11, 1959. In the late 1970s, they purchased Ad-Art, and dedicated herself to their business, working alongside her family from the late 1970s until her retirement.

Many notable achievements characterized Betty's life, but one of her proudest accomplishments was hitting a hole-in-one while golfing—a shining moment she cherished dearly. Beyond her professional and sporting accomplishments, her strength, determination, and work ethic were qualities she cherished and instilled in her family, and her wit and sassiness brought joy to her grandchildren. Betty had a range of hobbies and interests; she played solitaire every day, traveled, visited the casino on occasion, and treasured every moment she had with her family. She especially enjoyed being able to cook for her family and loved ones during the holidays.

She will be missed by her surviving family, including daughter Kim (Uwe Staerk) Ellertson, son Scott (Jody) Ellertson, and daughter Diane (Brad Copeland) Knopik; her grandchildren Jocelynn, Brandon, Trevor, Cory, Ashley, Alex, Lacey, Shaina, and Kate, and 17 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers George and Jack; in-laws Ken and Cindy Lamping and Dennis and Marsha Ellertson; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and cats Smokey and Cinnamon, who brought comfort and companionship to her life.

Welcoming her home are her husband, Darrell, parents John and Gertrude, grandson Derek Abrego, son-in-law Jarod Knopik, and siblings John, Harold, Carl, Earl, and Gladys.

Services for Betty will be held at 10:00 AM, Thursday, January 11, 2024, at Bonnerup Funeral Service with visitation beginning at 9:00 AM. Following her service, Betty will be interred alongside her husband at Hillcrest Cemetery in Albert Lea.