Betty Jean Swenson, age 91, of River Falls, Wis., died peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, Aug. 16, 2026.
Born on Nov. 8, 1934, in St. Paul, Minn., Betty was the fifth of six children born to Walter and Gladys (Skarison) Lodge. She graduated from Harding High School in St. Paul in 1952, where she was active in the “A” Choir, Girls’ Athletic Association Board, and Student Council.
After graduation, Betty worked as a clerk at Fort Snelling until she married Eugene Swenson in December 1953. Together they operated their family farm east of River Falls, where Betty transitioned from a city girl to a true farm wife, learning to milk cows and drive tractors.
Betty brought a joyful spirit to everything she did and will be remembered most for her dedication to family and community. She shared her time and talents with many organizations, holding offices and volunteering at Rush River Lutheran Church, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the Minneapolis VA Hospital. Her enjoyment of music was lifelong, and she was a member of the Music Madams and sang in the church choir.
In later years, Betty and Gene enjoyed traveling together and became world travelers, creating memories across the globe, with stops in Norway, the USSR (Soviet Union), Egypt, China, Turkey, Greece, Brazil and many Caribbean cruises.
Betty was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Eugene; her parents; and her siblings. She is survived by her children, Deborah (Michael) Wolf, Donald Swenson, Carol Swenson (Troy Singletary), Eric (Michelle) Swenson, and Julie (John) Mickish; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews; extended relatives; and dear friends.
Filled with family, music, church, civic activities, and travel, Betty’s life was a beautiful example of devotion to faith, community and friendship.
A Celebration of Life for Betty has been planned for 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Rush River Lutheran Church, (N8623 County Road Y, River Falls, WI), with visitation starting at 10 a.m. Betty’s service will be live streamed. Interment will be in Rush River Lutheran Cemetery.
Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
