Elizabeth "Betty" Jamsa

Our wonderful Mother, Grandma and Great- Grandma passed away on January 29, 2022, at the age of 92.

Our mother had a great love for her family, for music, nature and animals. A love that has been passed on to every one of us.

She was raised in Minneapolis with her 3 brothers: George, David and Steve. Along side their father they built a 1 room log cabin in Northern Minnesota on Woman Lake. Dad picked out and felled the trees and the kids stripped all the bark off. The original cabin still stands with a newer addition that our families have enjoyed for generations. Mom was a nature lover, and we spent a month each summer tenting all over the country. However, the lake was mom’s favorite place to be.  Every time we left, she stood in the yard and said goodbye to her lake. This year on mom’s 93rd birthday, May 2nd, she will return to her lake forever, never having to say goodbye again.

If there was one thing our parents passed onto us it was to “enjoy the music!” It always surrounded us. It’s what we went to sleep with, and was literally, the very foundation and background of our lives! Both parents had a degree in Music Education. Mom stayed home while we were young and then worked at the Byron Elementary School as a teacher’s assistant and lunchroom and recess supervisor. She did this until she retired and never stopped talking about how much she enjoyed the kids and being part of their lives. She was delighted when a student came back years later, just to say Hi, and catch up.

She was also very active in the Church. My parents were founding members of Christ Lutheran Church and were heavily involved in Church functions and teachings. She made so many lifelong friends in church and these friendships carried her through, all of her life.

Mom was an animal lover and rescuer. Along with monetary gifts to animal shelters/ rescues, she took in many strays over the years. We were all quite sure there was a beacon bringing them to our doorstep! She didn’t care what type of critter it was, if it needed help, it was cared for. The many animals I remember include, dogs, cats, wild birds, a parakeet in a snow bank, bunnies, raccoons, wild birds, toads and even a salamander was brought in the family home. It was love and passion all rolled into one, and as with most things, it rubbed off on all of us. Just one more gift from her to us—be gentle and caring.

Our family wishes to thank the 1st Avenue neighborhood where my mother lived—"Thank you” really seems insufficient as you were the best neighbors anyone could ask for! We are eternally grateful for all the friendship and help given to my parents over the years. You were so kind, loving and such good people! We especially thank Deb, who was right there anytime mom needed help, or to just sit quietly and be attentive.

We are eternally grateful to all of you.