Betty G. Dawley

Betty G. Dawley, age 89, of Forest Lake, Minnesota, formerly of River Falls, Ellsworth and Baldwin, Wisconsin, beloved mother, grandmother, and devoted caregiver. Betty was born on December 1, 1934, and departed from this world on June 15, 2024. Throughout her life, Betty dedicated herself to caring for others with unwavering kindness and generosity.

Working in daycare centers, providing home housekeeping services, and doing laundry in a nursing home, Betty's nurturing spirit touched the lives of countless individuals, particularly the children she looked after. She found immense joy in spending time with her beloved grandchildren, cherishing every moment shared with them.

Despite facing numerous health challenges, Betty's resilience and strength were truly remarkable. She triumphed over cancer not once, but twice, and courageously navigated through open heart surgery, showcasing her unwavering determination and indomitable spirit.

Betty's giving nature extended beyond her professional endeavors, as she was known for her philanthropic efforts, supporting various charitable organizations and causes close to her heart. Her selflessness and compassion left an enduring impact on those around her.

As we come together to honor Betty's life, we celebrate the legacy of a remarkable woman who touched the lives of so many.

She is preceded in death by her parents, George and Jewel Moore; first husband, James Smith; second husband, Jon Dawley; children, John Smith. Jacqueline Smith; great grandson, Brian Valley; 3 brothers and 3 sisters.

She is survived by daughters, Sue (Alan) Olsen, Annette (Shane) Swiney; daughter-in-law, Marlene Smith; step-sons, Jeff Dawley, Trevor Dawley; grandchildren, Tina (Tiny) Proctor, Kari (Jason) Shoemaker, Travis (Angie) Valley, Christine (Tony) Bacon, Jacob (Leah) Olsen, Ethan (Britney) Valaski, Ryan Valaski, Chloe Valaski, Chad (Holly) Thompson, Rachel Smith, Jamie Hestnas, Josh Stodola; great grandchildren, Kay Valley, Joe Valley, Sam Valley, Asher Valley, Levi Valley, Alton Proctor, Chloe Proctor, Avery Shoemaker, Teddy Shoemaker, Hunter Bacon, Ellena Bacon, Brady Olsen, Lily Olsen, Caleb Valaski, Brianna Randolph, Jonathan Randolph, Isabella Hestnas, Isaac Hestnas, Emma Thompson, Eleanor Thompson, Truman Thompson; many other family members and friends. 

 A Funeral Service will be held at 10 AM, on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake, MN.  Family will be greeting friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.  Burial will take place at 1:30 PM, at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Minneapolis, MN.