Mary Betzler

Mary Betzler, 91, of Silver Bay, died unexpectedly on Monday, December 6, 2021 at St. Luke’s Hospital.

Mary was born February 9, 1930 to Rupert and Emily (LaFave) Johnson in Two Harbors, where she grew up and attended school. She married John Betzler on October 14, 1950 and they lived in Two Harbors until moving to Silver Bay in 1957. Mary worked for the DM& IR Railroad’s phone company for several years, then worked as photographer and editor of the Silver Bay News and later columnist and photographer for the Lake County News Chronicle.

Mary enjoyed photography, reading, writing, knitting, crocheting, and geneology studies. She was also known for her poetry and often sang at weddings in her earlier years.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John; a brother, Richard Johnson; and long-time companion, Dale Hanson.

She is survived by her children, Janis (Bill) Bourdon, Diane (Paul) Makowski, Steven (Pat) Betzler, David (Sue) Betzler, Cathy (Keith) Hare, Patty (Steve Holmes) Betzler, and Sharon (Tim) Nordskog; 16 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren, and many extended family.

Private graveside service will be held on June 25 at Sawtooth Cemetery with a celebration of her life at the Beaver Bay Community Center from 1:30 – 4 PM.