Betty A. Klinghagen, 74

Betty A. Klinghagen, age 74, of New Prague, died suddenly at her home on Thursday, July 25, 2019.  Betty was born on December 15, 1944, in Willmar, MN to George and Anna (Hanson) Vikse.  She was raised in Willmar and graduated from Willmar High School.  She married the love of her life, Earl J. Klinghagen on November 21, 1964 in Willmar and the couple began their nearly 55 years of marriage in Clara City.  They lived in Maynard, then Paynesville for many years before finally moving to New Prague in December 2012 when their fourth granddaughter was born.  Being a mother was Betty’s first priority so it was important for her to be at home until her children were both in school.  After that, she worked all her life as a secretary/receptionist for a number of industries, including hospitals, an insurance company, a hockey apparel store, and a school.  Betty loved music and was able to use that talent throughout her life, starting as the organist/pianist at Eagle Lake Lutheran Church before marriage and continuing that ministry in other churches, most recently at Lydia Zion United Methodist Church.  She was an active member of the church women’s group.  She loved watching and feeding birds but Betty’s greatest passion was for her family; she was dedicated to her grandchildren and cherished her time with them. 

 Betty is survived by her loving husband, Earl of New Prague; son, Brent (Nichoel) Klinghagen of Moorhead; daughter, Brynna (Brandon) Skluzacek of New Prague; granddaughters, Paige Klinghagen, Lana, Lexi, and Scarlett Skluzacek; brother, Arland (Esther) Vikse of Willmar.  She is preceded in death by her parents, George & Anna Vikse.

 Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, July 30, 2019 at 11:00 AM at Lydia Zion United Methodist Church (1026 E. 205^th St., Jordan, MN) with Pastor Larry Kasten officiating.  Visitation will take place Monday from 4-7 PM at Bruzek Funeral Home and on Tuesday morning from 10 – 11 at church.  There will be a lunch at church following the burial at Concord Hill Cemetery in Spring Lake.