Betty Teske

Betty Teske, age 91, of Odessa, MN, passed away on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at Ortonville Area Health Services Hospital.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Odessa, MN. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at the church on Monday. Pastor Nathaniel Brown will officiate, and interment will be at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Odessa.

Betty Ann (Erickson) Teske was born on May 10, 1935, in Wheaton, MN, to Edward and Olga (Will) Erickson. She spent her formative years in Barry, MN, where she crafted a foundation of love, kindness, and resilience that would guide her throughout her life. She graduated with the Class of 1953 from Wheaton High School, where she first began to nurture her cherished relationships and sense of community.

On April 13, 1957, Betty united in marriage with the love of her life, Donald Teske. Together, they embarked on a journey filled with love, laughter, and the joys of parenting, raising eight wonderful children who carry forward her legacy of compassion and unity. Betty’s devotion to her family was unparalleled, and she cherished every moment spent together, particularly during the Christmas season, a time she made magical for her loved ones.

In addition to her role as a dedicated mother, Betty proudly worked at Frigo Cheese Factory, balancing her professional commitments with the love and care she provided to her family. Her home was a sanctuary adorned with beautifully crafted floral arrangements. She also had desire to bring beauty into the lives of those around her and enjoyed creating floral arrangements for them.

Betty was a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Odessa, where she embodied the values of faith and fellowship, connecting with her community and sharing her warmth with all.

Left to cherish Betty’s memory are her children: Cindy (Mark) Torgerson, Mike Teske, Debra Teske, Patty (Gordy) Bolsta, Steve Teske, James (Janine) Teske, Lisa (Thomas) Athey, and Angie Teske (Dan Wiese); 13 grandchildren: Chris (Jodi) Teske, Kimberly (Josh) Larson, Cody (Karley) Teske, Ethan (Halie) Teske, Ryan (Tiffany) Bolsta, Kayla (Mack) Minder, Amanda Athey, Jacob (Grace) Torgerson, Josh Teske, Tanner Teske (Julie Drobny), Mitchell (Ariel) Torgerson, Tori Teske, Emily (Ben) Eustice; 14 great-grandchildren with one on the way; along with several nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Don, in 1999; her parents; her siblings: Eldon Erickson, Bernard Erickson, Irene Fults, Anna Knapp, Bob Conner; and George Conner; and daughter-in-law, Cathy Teske. 

“I have had a long life but everyone’s has to come to an end. Just remember to be kind to others, especially your family members. Goodbye for now. We will be together again someday. Love you all.”

• A message from Betty to her loved ones