Elizabeth "Betty" Marie Stenger

Elizabeth (Betty) Marie Stenger, age 99, of North Mankato, MN, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2025.

Born on May 4, 1925, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Betty was the beloved daughter of Patrick William Shields and Gertrude Marie Shields. She grew up in Pittsburgh and attended St. Mary of the Mount High School, graduating in 1942. She continued her education at Point Park College, where she earned an associate degree in business and became proficient in Gregg shorthand.

Betty began her professional career at the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, where she worked for seven years. It was during this time, following World War II, that she married the love of her life, John Matthew Stenger Jr., a sergeant in the 8th Armored Division, US Army. Together, they shared 64 wonderful years of marriage and raised six children.

In 1968, Betty and John relocated their family to Mankato, Minnesota, where they became devoted parishioners of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. Their faith was central to their lives, and ensuring their children received a Catholic education was of great importance to them.

Betty had a distinguished career, holding positions with the Social Security office, the unemployment office, and Mankato State University. She was also an avid bridge player, participating in local bridge clubs for over 50 years. Her hobbies included sewing, quilting, and RV traveling, pursuits that brought her great joy.

After John’s passing, Betty found a warm and welcoming community at Oak Terrace Senior Living in North Mankato. She remained active in the things she loved—playing cards, leading the weekly rosary, participating in the 500 club, and working on puzzles. She cherished the friendships she made and the time spent with her loved ones.

Betty is survived by her children, Janet Moore, Joseph (Louanne) Stenger, David (Deborah) Stenger, Mary Anne (Joseph) Romeo, Paul Stenger, and Gerard (Jeanine Joseph) Stenger; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Marge Shields. She was preceded in death by her parents, Patrick and Gertrude Shields; her beloved husband, John; and her brothers, William (Helen) Shields, Thomas Shields, and Joseph Shields.

A woman of deep faith, kindness, and quiet strength, Betty’s legacy lives on in the love she shared with her family and the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Funeral Mass will be held Monday, March 3, 2025 at 2:00pm at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 525 Grant Avenue, North Mankato, Minnesota. Visitation will be Monday from 1:00pm-2:00pm, prior to Mass at church. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Mankato. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to a charity of your choice in Betty’s honor.

May she rest in eternal peace.

The live stream link below is a complimentary service provided by

Mankato Area Funeral Homes.

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