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Mary Elizabeth Bach (nee Bemis), 100, of Minneapolis, MN passed away Wednesday, November 19th at Prelude Home and Services in Woodbury, MN.

Mary, otherwise known as Betty, was born in St. Cloud, MN on August 15th, 1925, the daughter of the late Frank and Lorinda Bemis (Seifert). She was a 1942 graduate of Cathedral High School. She married Alvin J Bach, at the age of 18 on April 12th, 1944. 

Betty was a devoted advocate of the Association of Retarded Citizens, advocating for children with Special Needs. She always believed everyone should be treated equally. She fought hard for education rights and the rights for employment. Betty was an avid homemaker, she loved baking, cooking and sewing. Many of the children's clothing were either sewn by Betty or her mother Lorinda Bemis. Betty, who was a very graceful woman, was also Mrs. Minnesota in 1958, at the time having 5 children. Her husband had nominated her for the pageant and with her skills and beauty she won. There is an exhibit at the MN Historical Museum for Minnesota's Greatest Generation, in which several of Betty's items are on display. Betty's dedication, passion and commitment touched the lives of many and will continue to inspire all who knew her. 

In Betty's pastime, when she was not baking, cooking or sewing for her nine children, she loved playing cards (Bridge), participating in a bowling league or going dancing at the Medina Ballroom. Betty was a member of the Basilica of St. Mary, Minneapolis, MN for over 60 years.

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to Prelude Home and Services, Staff and Caregivers, including Bluestone Physician Doctor Logan, who specialize in Dementia, for their exceptional care, support, and kindness for Mom's tenure in addition to Gentiva Hospice for supporting us through Mom's final days. 

Betty is survived by her sister, Edith Lucas of Denver, CO, daughters Linda (Dale) Manis, Joan (Patrick) Daems, Janet Feany, Kathy (Paul) Tollefson, Sue (Paul) Tomlinson, Pam Bach, Patty (Chris) Hathaway and one son, Dick. She was predeceased by her husband Alvin, son Thomas, son-in-law William Feany, one sister Virginia Kobe, brothers James Bemis, Frank Bemis, and Jerome Bemis

Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday December 9th. Reviewal from 12:30 - 1:30, service from 1:30 - 2:30, with a 2:30 luncheon. at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis, MN, 88N 17th Street. A private interment will be held at Lakewood Cemetery, Minneapolis, MN on Wednesday 12/10 at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Prelude Home and Services for activities residents participate in or to Mount Olivet Rolling Acres which provides Group Home services for people with special needs, such as her son Richard (Dick ). Your gift will honor Betty's legacy and continue the work she deeply valued.