Mary Elizabeth “Betty” McAllen, 99,
Mary Elizabeth “Betty” McAllen, 99, passed away on Nov. 7, 2021, at Bethany on University in Fargo, N.D.
Betty was born on Dec. 3, 1921, in Cavalier, N.D.
She was the daughter of Freda and Ted Simons. After graduation from Cavalier High School in 1939, she began working at Adams Hardware store. Soon she met the dashing young optometrist who had moved to town.
On Dec. 21, 1940, Betty traveled with Mac to meet his mother. They stopped in Duluth, Minn., to meet his brother, and it was there, Betty and Mac were married. To announce their marriage to Betty’s parents, a telegram was sent with the simple message, “Merry Christmas, from a very happy couple, Dr. and Mrs. G.W. McAllen.” They made their home in Hallock, Minn., where they raised their family.
In 1987, Betty and Mac moved to Alamo, Texas, where they enjoyed golfing and making new friends. In 1996, they moved to Fargo to be close to family. Betty was a loving mother, wife and faithful Christian. Her favorite Bible verse was, “This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalms 118:24.
She was an excellent writer and has chronicled much of her life in an engaging, and often humorous, manner. She loved being at the lake, fishing, swimming and soaking up the sun. She loved to golf, play bridge, bowl and dance.
Her children and grandchildren were the light of her life.
Betty is survived by: her children, Trish (Bruce) Melin of Waite Park, Minn., Marilyn Solie of Richfield, Minn., Scott (Charlene) McAllen of Detroit Lakes, Minn., Vicki (Doug) Pieper of Pine City, Minn., Kelly (Rachel) McAllen of Fargo, Gary McAllen of Maple Grove, Minn., Lisa (Nathan) of New Brighton, Minn.; 19 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by: her husband, Mac; and daughters, Diane and Theresa.
The celebration of Betty’s life was held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 13, 2021, at the Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home in Fargo. Visitation was one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery in Hallock.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.hansonrunsvold.com. Arrangements by Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home – Fargo.
