Marilyn Betlach, 94, Owatonna
The Betlach family mourns the peaceful passing of a beautiful soul Oct. 18, 2026.
Marilyn Jean was born July 27, 1932, to Albert & Gladys (Gullickson) Westby, and at age 6 welcomed a sister Karen (Karen Lindsay of San Diego, Calif.).
While a lifelong Minnesota resident, her life changed when she met John Betlach in Owatonna, and they soon became high school sweethearts. While John pursued his dental degree, Marilyn attended Nursing School, later working as head nurse of obstetrics and the nursery in Minneapolis.
She frequently talked of her love of caring for the babies. She extended her care of children as a school nurse.
Despite much sadness over the early loss of her father (his age 54), she found joy in her marriage to John Dec. 29, sharing over 70 amazing years together since that day. As parents they were blessed with four children: Jeff, Julie, Mary Kay and Scott.
Marilyn was an adventurous mother, allowing the children many pets, family ski trips, USA destinations and frequent fun times at the family's Lake Francis cottage. She shared a love of travel with her husband and family, visiting numerous countries covering six continents. Many a winter spent in Green Valley, Ariz., provided more wonderful times with cherished friends. She had an amazing talent for home decor, creating beautiful spaces, along with the "greenest of thumbs"... her flower gardens were the envy of us all. None could compete with her skill completing the most difficult crossword puzzles! She lived an active life, enjoying yoga, tennis and daily walks (through Kaplan's Woods, a favorite).
Marilyn was a beloved "Nana" to Chad, Lindsay, Jonathan, Christopher, Alexander and Johnny Max. The grandchildren enjoyed many summer visits to the Owatonna County Fair, parks and lakes, treats of mac & cheese and ice cream. She was an expert finder of four-leaf clovers and her family felt lucky beyond measure for her love. She never forgot a birthday or anniversary and was an avid "cheerleader" and supporter of all her children and grandchildren. She became a great grandmother of two as well.
Later in life Marilyn demonstrated strength and courage as she fought and won battles with ovarian and breast cancer. Her most painful challenge was the sudden loss of her son Scott due to congestive heart failure.
Sadly, her battle with dementia in recent years was a tough one, yet she transformed many caregivers into friends with her friendly, polite nature and frequent smiles. She was a beautiful woman inside and out.
She will be missed and celebrated by her husband John, son Jeff (Cheryl) of Altoona, Wis.; daughter Julie Free Heart (Northfield) and daughter Mary Kay (Jon) Holzerland of Lakeville.
The family expresses many thanks and appreciation for the staffs of Ecumen Brooks and Benedictine Living Community Rehab and Hospice for all their kindness and care.
Michaelson Funeral Homes of Owatonna is handling funeral arrangements.