Betty Hjelle

Betty Hjelle, 87, Thief River Falls, MN passed away peacefully on Monday, March 25, 2024 at Thief River Care Center, Thief River Falls, MN.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM with the Memorial Service to celebrate the life of Betty Hjelle at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at Westaker Free Lutheran Church in Newfolden, MN with Pastor Kevin Hall officiating. Burial will be at Westaker Cemetery at a later date.

Betty Joyce McKeever was born March 6, 1937 in Arvilla Township, Grand Forks county, ND the daughter of Daniel H. and Mary (Nikle) McKeever. Mary died at the time of Betty’s birth. Betty was raised by her uncle and aunt, Glenn and Mildred (Ellefson) McKeever and was raised in Middle River, MN.

On April 14, 1956 Betty was united in marriage to James Hjelle and together they enjoyed 66 years of marriage. The couple were blessed with 4 children Russell, Wayne, Sherry and Dean. Following James’ honorable service in the United States Army, the family settled on a farm in rural Newfolden, MN.

Betty felt very blessed to be with their children while they were at home. The kids remember her wonderful cooking and snowmobiling with the neighbors.

Family and friends described her as very social, family oriented, she loved babies and enjoyed collecting dolls. She took great pride in her appearance with her hair, makeup, nails, and always looked very stylish. Betty enjoyed making jewelry, especially bracelets, going to rummage sales, auction sales, and playing bingo.

Betty was a member of Westaker Free Lutheran Church and active with the Ladies Aid and also a member of the Middle River American Legion Auxiliary Post 444.

Survivors include children, Russell Hjelle of Hillsboro, ND, Wayne (Tracy) Hjelle of Thief River Falls, MN, Sherry (Dale) Warne of Roseau, MN, and Dean Hjelle. 7 Grandchildren Jordan (Kaci), Sammie (Dawn), Travis (Lindsey), Jessica (Jordy), Austin (Lexi), Chris (Jindalley), Cheyenne (Jesse); 13 great-grandchildren; and all of Betty’s relatives in the Ellefson, McKeever, and Hjelle families.

She is preceded in death by her husband, James in 2023; parents; daughter-in-law, Susan Hjelle; grandsons, Todd Hjelle and Nicholas Warne; and several brothers and sisters.

Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com