Elizabeth “Betty” Jean O’Brien passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026 at the age of 87. She was born on April 16, 1938, to John and Anna (Clements) Capaul. She was married to Gary O’Brien for sixty-two years before his passing in 2023.

Betty was born the sixth child in a farm family of seven children near Alma Center, WI. Betty grew up with a strong sense of family and hard work. She attended a rural school from first through eighth grade and then continued her education at Lincoln High School after the family moved into Alma Center when she was sixteen.

After graduating, Betty attended the Gale Institute and began a lifelong career as a teletype operator. She worked in Chicago before moving to Minneapolis, where she joined International Milling. Betty later married Gary, her beloved husband of sixty-two years. His career took them briefly to La Crosse, Wisconsin, before they made their home in Minneapolis. Betty devoted twenty-eight years of service to General Motors as a teletype operator, where she was respected for her dedication, reliability, and strong work ethic.

In retirement, Betty and Gary relocated to Blaine, where they enjoyed winters in Arizona. Betty remained vibrant and engaged, playing golf, bowling twice a week, and participating in a Red Hat group where she made lifelong friends. She also found joy in crafting and playing cards.

After Gary’s passing, their only daughter Beth, encouraged Betty to move to Guardian Angels in Otsego. It was there that Betty quickly became a cherished member of the community, sharing her warmth and enthusiasm with those around her.

Betty’s legacy of love, friendship, and community involvement will be remembered fondly by all who knew her. She leaves behind a daughter, Beth, and a host of friends and family who will miss her dearly.

She is preceded in death by her husband Gary; brothers Robert Capaul and Bernard Capaul; sisters, Alice Miller, Frances Hayes and Jeanette Bohac.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Beth (Pete) Feldstein; grandchildren Dustin (Alissa) Hoffman, Tyler (Amber) Feldstein; great grandchildren, Kayla and Avery; and sister, JoAnn Schroeder.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be left to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Mass of Christian burial at 12:30 PM on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the Church of St. Andrew, 566 – 4th St NW, Elk River, with visitation starting at 11:30 AM. There will be a luncheon to follow.

A private burial service will be held at St Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Alma Center, WI.