Betty Lou Windschill

Betty Lou (Willms) Windschill, age 95, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2026, at Pleasant View Nursing Home in Saint James, Minnesota.

Betty’s celebration of life will be held at First Lutheran Church (719 6th Ave. South) in Saint James, Minnesota on Saturday May 16, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Visitation will be in the church prior to the service starting at 9:30 AM. Interment will be at the Calvary Cemetery in Saint James. Arrangements are with the Sturm Funeral Home in Saint James. Online Condolences may be left for the family at www.sturmfh.com.

Betty was a loved and cherished matriarch. With her husband, Robert Windschill, they raised 5 children. First and foremost, Betty was a wonderful mom and grandmother. Her quiet yet unwavering support for her family was the foundation for a loving and ever-expanding family. She taught life lessons by living them, by modeling. The world is a better place as a result of Betty’s life. Her family and community were enriched by her presence.

A few short reflections:

Betty had a perpetual smile. Many people over the years mentioned her ever present, warm and welcoming smile.

Betty loved to bake and cook; if she was in charge of the event meal, whatever the occasion, you were sure to experience a feast. She was the consummate host.

Coffee in the morning, afternoon, for all meals and just before bed. Apparently, caffeine did not disrupt her sleep.

Her faith and church were a constant in her life. She volunteered for many church events, attended faithfully, and believed deeply. Betty and friends sat in one of the church pews near the front of the church. One of the ministers relayed the story of a new, young member that asked about “those dignified ladies that always sat up front”. She then stated she wanted to be like them when she got older.

She was a bit of a fashionista; always looked great. Hair done. Outfits matching. Jewelry coordinated.

Couples bridge was her game. She played for decades. She was still playing in her 95th year of life.

Little known fact. Betty loved to fish motivated by her love of eating fish; lobster was her favorite. Her favorite nail polish was titled: I Eat Mainely Lobster.

Partnership. Husband Bob was a veterinarian in St. James. Betty was his after hours and weekend assistant taking phone calls. When dad was on call, mom was on call. Cell phones were only an imaginary, futuristic, science fiction device at the time.

Betty and Bob enjoyed many years traveling to Florida to escape Minnesota winter in retirement. They both loved the ocean and sunshine.

Betty is survived by her 5 children, Paul (Christie), Karen (Doug), Brad (Stephanie), Greg (Jane) and Deb (John); 15 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; 2 sisters, Mary Ann and Sandra; and one brother-in-law, Al. Family that preceded Betty in death include her husband, Robert; parents, Louis and Ethyl Willms; sister Ramona; brothers, David, Donald and Rodney; brothers-in-law, Bill and Bruce; and sister-in-law, Donna.