Obituary of Betty Harnell

Elizabeth Ann “Betty” Harnell, of Proctor, passed away on November 12 in St. Luke’s Hospital.

She was born in Duluth on April 7, 1932 to Edwin and Frideborg Anderson. She graduated from Denfeld in 1949 and UMD in 1953. She taught Home Economics for 3 years before marrying Robert D. Harnell on August 25, 1956. They built their home and life in Proctor. She was married for 54 years.

Betty was a lifelong active member of Elim Lutheran Church and had been President of Arrowhead Home Economists, Worthy Matron of Trinity OES, and Guardian of Proctor Jobs Daughters. She loved sewing, knitting, and playing Bridge. She also enjoyed golfing and bowling. Yearly highlights were spending summers at their cabin and winters, after retirement, in Arizona for over 20 years. Betty was happiest caring for her family, their activities, and home.

Betty was very proud of her children and grandchildren! She is survived by 3 children: Laura McVann, Lee (Tammy Jo), and Lowell (Jennifer); 8 grandchildren: Meghan, Evan (Amanda), Jacob, Daniel, Noah, Benjamin, Matthew, and Elizabeth; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother Ralph (Marjorie) Anderson, and son-in-law Owen.

Visitation will be held from 10:00am until the 11:30am Celebration of Life Service at Elim Lutheran Church, 6101 Cody Street, Duluth, on Friday, November 17, 2023. In lieu of flowers memorials preferred to Elim Lutheran Church.