Wilson, Betty Lou L. (Fonnier) age 97, of Edina, passed away September 27, 2025. Survived by daughters and sons - in- law Laurie Wilson Spencer and Dr. Michael Spencer, Lynn (Lyndy) and Gregory Benson; grandchildren Kristi Benson, Stephanie and Cailen Hofmann, Kassie and Kris Kopp, Nathan Spencer, Mikey and Kirsten Spencer; great grandchildren Isla and Aspen Hofmann, Marlowe Spencer, Cece and Charlie Kopp. 

Preceded in death by her husband of 60 years Merlin H. Wilson and infant son Jay Merlin.

Betty was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. 

Betty grew up in Minneapolis, graduating from Washburn High School in 1946. While in high school, she was a drum major for the Washburn band as well as a drum major in many Aquatennial parades. 

She attended the University of Minnesota.  In 1951 she married Merlin H. Wilson. They raised their daughters in Edina MN.

Betty and her husband, Merlin, formed a company called “MEBECO” and created a “Recipe House” and several other items that they made together.

Betty was always involved in volunteering. She used her time and talents as a member of the Children’s Hospital Auxiliary – Humpty Dumpty chapter, the Mrs. Jaycee’s, the Edina Lioness club – serving as President, Camp Fire Bluebirds leader, and the Mount Olivet Shepherding Program - Board of Lay Ministry.

She continued her career path in the 1960's as a church secretary for several congregations. 

Betty changed directions for a few years to establish her own company, BW Publications, working with many organizations on their literature and publicity.

She also worked for several Minneapolis based companies and as the Director of Development for Chapel View Senior Living and the National Federation of the Blind.

She received her certification as a Church Business Administrator in 1981 as the first woman in the country to do this. She worked in this capacity for St. Edwards Catholic Church in Bloomington. 

Betty moved from her home of 63 years to Yorkshire of Edina in 2024. She was fiercely independent there. We thank the staff at Yorkshire and LifeSpark Hospice, who took such loving care of her in her final week. 

Memorial service will be Sunday, October 26, at 1 pm, with visitation one hour prior at Cremation Society of MN, 7110 France Ave. S, Edina MN 55435.  Private burial will be at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. 

Memorials to Minnesota Colon Rectal Foundation (MCRF) 6363 France Ave. S, Suite 400, Edina, Minnesota 55435, or Mount Olivet Lutheran Church, 5025 Knox Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55419.