Betty Ann Jaeger

Betty Ann Jaeger passed away on October 5, 2023, in Great Falls, MT. She was 86 years old.

Betty was born to Marjorie and Leonard Ostrom on November 16, 1936, in Minot, ND. For a short time, she lived on a farm not far from Crocked Lake, ND before moving to land south of Kief, ND. The family ranched and farmed at that location for decades. Betty was the second of six children. She grew up with farm animals. She loved to ride horses, but cows were her favorite. In her local community she went to Saturday matinees, attended church, and enjoyed neighborhood dances. Although she shared time with many family members, her Grandma Ostrom and Aunt Cleo were most dear to her.

Betty met Peter Jaeger in Minot, ND. After marrying, they moved to Great Falls, where she lived the rest of her life. She was the proud mother of four children. Betty loved to bake, especially cinnamon rolls, cookies, and apple pie. She took joy in making lefse for fellow Norwegians. She spent hours sewing for herself and her children. Gardening was another favorite activity. At one time her yard was full of flowering plants. She always grew enough tomatoes to last into fall. Late summer was her time to start canning. She also took an interest in upholstering. More than anything, she loved a good bargain at yard sales.

Betty worked at Montgomery Ward in her younger years. She went on to employment at a bakery where she learned to decorate cakes. She later took positions in grocery stores as a clerk and produce staff. She worked at the White House Market for many years where she forged lifelong friendships. Eventually she worked with her husband in their handyman business. Together they remodeled or repaired many properties.

Betty spent her last years in assisted living facilities. A special thank you to the staff who attended to her, especially through the many months of COVID.

She is survived by her husband, Pete; her children, Kathy (husband Tim), Linda (husband Ronn), Blake, Amber (husband Chuck); grandchildren, Alex, Nathan, Jacob, Emily, Aidan; great-grandchild, Adrian; brothers, Douglas, Dennis (wife Nancy); and many nieces and nephews along with their children.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; infant brother, Delton; sisters, Donna and MarJean; grandson, Benjamin; and granddaughter, Lizzy.

A Celebration of Life will occur at a later date.