Betsy Evans (1871-1948)

EVANS, THORSON, ELIASSEN, DAVIS, LYSNE

Posted By: Dorian Myhre (email)
Date: 8/17/2020 at 12:22:28

Obituary source: The Roland Record, Roland, Story County, Iowa, February 19, 1948

Transcribed by Dena Gray-Fisher

"BETSY EVANS

Miss Betsy Evans, daughter of Erik and Maria Evans was born on the Evans homestead southwest of Roland on December 20, 1871 and passed away on February 7, 1948 at the age of 76 years, one month and 18 days. She had been failing in health for the past six weeks, then suffered a stroke and was seriously ill for about a week before her death. She spent her entire life in the same home, never having married.

She is survived by two brothers Martin Evans at home, and Lewis Evans of Blue Earth, Minn.; a foster sister, Mrs. Valida Thorson of Story City; her close lifetime companion, Inger Winterhus, two sister-in-law, Mrs. Lewis Evans of Blue Earth, and Mrs. Louisa Eliassen of Northfield, Minn.; three nieces, Beverly Evans of Minneapolis, Mrs. Frank Davis of Elkton, Kentucky, and Mrs. Melvin C. Lysne of Northfield; and three nephews, Evan M. Eliassen of Housten, Minn., Reuben H. Eliasen of Bethany, West Virginia, and Victor H. Eliassen of Swannanoa, North Carolina.

She was preceded in death by her parents and three brothers, Henry Eliassen, Erik Evans and Tom Evans and by a brother and sister who died in infancy.

Blessed by Christian parents and fine family home, she early became interest in the church. She was confirmed by the Rev. C. B. Jacobson and was a member of the Bergen Lutheran congregation during her entire lifetime. She was an active member of the Ladies Aid and also participated in the work of the Mission Circle.

In her home life Betsy Evans maintained the highest ideals of unselfish generosity and hospitality, having from time to time befriended many who in one way or another needed help and encouragement. Through her kindly manner in a most unassuming way she exemplified Christian helpfulness and the finest ideals. Truly those who live quietly and honestly with their fellowmen are the backbone of our society. She will thus be remembered by many, both among her immediate family, her circle of friends and relatives both young and old. She was interested in people and kept alert to changing conditions in community and State. Her personality attracted many who admired her and who felt the genuine hospitality in her home.

Funeral services for Miss Evans were conducted from the Bergen Lutheran Church Wednesday afternoon, February 11 with Rev. Allen E. Nelson in charge. Revs. G. Smedal and O. Amdalsrud also spoke briefly. Otto J. Hanson sang "Den Store Hvide Flok" and "I Know of a Sleep in Jesus Name".

Pall bearers were Nomer Owenson, John Hovick, Clarence Hovde, Barney Durby, Dr. J.A. Snyder, and William Frandsen. Interment was made in the Roland cemetery.

All the nieces and nephews mentioned above were present at the funeral except Reuben H. Eliassen.

Many in memoriam gifts were received for church activities parachial school and various charities in her memory.

In addito to relatives, a large numer of friends from surounding towns were present as well as a great many from this community.

Those attending the funeral from a distance were Evan Eliassen of Houston, Minn.' Victor H. Eliassen, Swanmanoa, N.C.; Beatrice E. Davis of Elkton, Ky.; Mr. and Mrs. Melvin C. Lysne, of Northfield, Minn.; Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Evans of Blue Earth, Minn.' Beverly Evans of Minneapolis; Mrs. Harry Hanson of Thor; Mr. and Mrs. Iver Thorsheim and Mr.s Chester Pearson of Radcliffe, Mrs. B.H. Knudtson of Dysart; Mrs. Henry Sevde of Ames, Mr. and Mrs. Willie Henderson of Ellsworth, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Hickle of Boone; Christ Vespestad of Jewell, Mrs. Eskel Hiller of Granada, Minn.; Mr. and Mrs. Oscar E. Lanland of Kamrar; Mr. and Mrs. Leo G. Olson and Merle, and Mr. and Mrs. Nomper Owenson and family all, from Randall, and Mr. and Mrs. M.O. Holland, Mrs. August Kleaveland, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Wier and Mr. and Mrs. S.H. Sansgaard, all of Story City."