Sally Ann Bethke, age 80 of Grant Township, Stillwater, MN, passed away September 24, 2016 at her home.

Sally was born on August 11, 1936 in Hudson, to Howard and Lilah (Rose) Brown. She grew up in Hudson and graduated from Hudson High School. Sally was united in marriage to Morris “Bill” Bethke on July 27, 1957 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Hudson. The couple were blessed with six children and made their home in Hudson and Lakeland, MN, before settling at their hobby farm near Stillwater, MN, in 1969. On the farm, the Bethke family raised and trained horses. The children participated in horse racing and horse shows, and Sally kept everyone on track by keeping their bellies full and pulling the horse trailer wherever it was needed. Sally also worked for more than 20 years at the Washington County DMV in Stillwater, before retiring in 2003.

Sally adored her family and loved spending time with them. She genuinely enjoyed giving, and was always welcoming to others. Sally was fond of trips to Canterbury Park with her friends, and relished in the memories of traveling with her sister, Nancy, to Disney World. She loved the Lord, and had a strong belief and devotion to her catholic faith.

Sally will remain in the hearts of her children, William “Bill” Bethke, Kelly Johnson, Troy (Suzy) Bethke, Shannon (Brian) Stevens, Shane (Lori) Bethke; grandchildren, Brad, Ryan and Tiana Johnson; Holly, Scott and Olivia Bethke; Cole and Garrett Stevens; and Luke and Sam Bethke; great-granddaughter, Haylee Johnson; siblings, Howard Brown and Donna (Clyde) Christensen. She is preceded in death by her husband, Morris “Bill” Bethke, son, Scott Bethke; parents, Howard and Lilah Brown; siblings, Phyllis Moriarty and Nancy Carmichael.

A Memorial Service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 29 at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 520 S. 11th St., Hudson. A Gathering of Family and Friends will take place 1 hour prior to the service. Interment at St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery. Memorials preferred.