Betty Ann Jennen, a cherished soul who touched the lives of many, was born Betty Ann Udseth on June 1st, 1936, in Fergus Falls, MN. She peacefully departed this world on September 11th, 2026, with her son by her side, holding her hand.

Betty was the beloved daughter of Gladys and Fred Udseth. Her life was one marked by love, resilience, and a generous spirit. She is reunited in peace with her parents, her sister Ruby Haagenson, brother-in-law Bob Haagenson, brother Dwyane Udseth, brother-in-law Harlan Pikop, and her dear Goddaughter Mary Jennen.

She leaves behind a legacy of love and family, survived by her children: Jeanne, Jacqueline, and Peter (Lori), her six grandchildren: Angel (Matthew), JoAnn (Lance), Nic (Tara), Mitchell, Luke, and Sara (Matthew), along with her five great-grandchildren: Brynn, Brooke, Cooper, Carsten, and Charles. Betty is also survived by her devoted sister Marlys Pikop, close friend and former sister-in-law Marlys Jennen, and her treasured nieces and nephews.

Betty graduated from Fergus Falls High School and then married Virgil Jennen in Anaheim, California in 1955. They watched Disneyland being built in the early days of their marriage, a story she loved to tell later in life. Virgil and Betty had three children over the next decade. Although the marriage ended, she continued a close relationship with her in-laws, many of whom were still her closest friends. She took immense pride in her professional career as a telephone operator, in California, in Fergus Falls after moving back to Minnesota, and at the VA Hospital in Fargo, ND, where she dedicated over 25 years of exemplary service before retiring. Her colleagues remember her unwavering commitment and the warmth that she brought to the hospital. At her retirement party, they told a story about how Betty was the only person to make it into work during a huge blizzard in 1989. She alone held down the VA switchboard, keeping the phone lines operational during that epic storm.

A woman of many passions, Betty's love for horses was evident in the joy she found owning and caring for them. She deeply valued her friendships and loved traveling to California to visit her siblings and extended family. Music and dancing brought her so much happiness, and she relished time spent playing board games with her family and dancing cheek-to-cheek with her grandbabies. She especially loved the holidays and hosting family dinners for all of her kids and grandkids.

Betty was known for her welcoming spirit, always ready with a pot of coffee for visitors and a home that was impeccably kept. Her baking talents were top-notch, and her kitchen was never short of delicious treats. Above all, Betty was a peacekeeper, always striving to see the best in everyone and trying her best to help others do the same.

Betty's family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Bethany Homes, particularly those of Willow 2 & 3. Their kindness and care brought comfort and joy to Betty's days, and their devotion will forever be remembered with gratitude.

In accordance with Betty's wishes, a private ceremony will be held to honor her life. Betty's spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories.