Betty Marie (Hakala) Thronson

Sadly, we announce our beloved mother, Betty (Hakala) Thronson, passed away peacefully, but unexpectedly at home on February 9, 2025. Betty was born June 6, 1934 at home to Jack and Dora (Paul) Hakala. Betty was an only child but grew up with her two cousins that she considered her brothers. Betty had celebrated her 90th birthday this past summer and was proud of the milestone of years she accomplished and still living at home.

In 1952 Betty graduated from the Historic Hibbing High School. Betty and Robert (Bob) Thronson Jr. were united in marriage on December 15, 1953. Bob and Betty spent their first year of marriage in Colorado Springs, Colorado where Bob was stationed in the army. Later they moved back to Hibbing where she remained the rest of her life.

Betty was an active member of the Salvation Army in Hibbing for 30 plus years.

Betty was the mother to seven children along with several other relatives that lived with Betty and Bob throughout the years. There was never a dull moment at the house as the kids were all growing up. It was pretty much a rotating door as the kids and their friends would be coming and going all day long.

Her door was always open to have a cup of coffee and share a great memory or two from the past. Betty‘s life was adventurous to say the least, with Bob and her seven kids. She was always up for a trip, whether it was near or miles away. She absolutely enjoyed traveling and seeing the world. Betty was a great storyteller as she recalled memories of her past. Her stories would have everyone listening diligently until the uncontrollable laughing started and even at times tears rolling down your cheeks and hers also.

Betty is survived by her children: Jack (Vicki), Dale (Susan), Margie, Marvin, and Bonnie. Betty has 15 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren, along with many cherished nieces, nephews and friends.

Betty is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bob (1988); daughter, Diane (2009); son, Gary (2014); granddaughter, Amanda (2012); and grandson, Dale Jr. (Tad 2019); her special Aunt Hulda; and cousins, Clifford and Kennth Tuuri.

A celebration of Betty‘s life will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at Hibbing Salvation Army, 107 West Howard Street.  The Memorial service will begin at 11am with a time of fellowship to follow until 2pm. Interment will be at Maple Hill Cemetery next to her husband Bob at a later date.