Betty Lou Carlson, 91, a resident of Edgewood Healthcare in Virginia, MN passed away on Friday, May 31, 2024.  She was born on February 10, 1933 in Aurora, MN, the daughter of Eli and Eva (Hangasmaa) Maki.  Betty grew up in Allen Junction, MN and graduated from Aurora High School, where she was the Homecoming Queen in 1951.

Betty moved to Duluth and attended Duluth Business School.  While in Duluth she met and fell in love with Bob Carlson.  They married on June 21, 1958 and after some moving about settled down in St. Paul, MN. 

Betty enjoyed her job as homemaker, caring for Bob and their two children.  She cared for others as well, delivering Meals on Wheels in St. Paul for 17 years.  She was active in her church, Beaver Lake Lutheran in St. Paul.  Betty often spoke of her childhood in Allen Junction.  She enjoyed telling tales of simple but fun times with her brothers, sister and friends.  Later in life she made sure that her grandchildren were always happy and healthy.

Betty is survived by her husband, of nearly 66 years, Robert; son Steve (Tanya) Carlson of Virginia; Grandchildren: Cooper, Samuel and Kirby Carlson and Jaclyn, Allison and Robert Melander; sister-in-law Violet; cousin Donna; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Eli and Eva; her siblings: Barbara, Lorraine, Edwin, and Bobby; and her daughter Carrie Melander.

A private family service will be held at a later date. 

The family would like to thank Edgewood Virginia and Caring Edge Health Care for the care and love they provided for Betty. 

Family services provided by Bauman-Cron, A Bauman Family Funeral Home in Virginia.  To share condolences online, please visit: www.baumanfuneralhome.com.