Bette Eileen Bensch

Bette (Hult) Bensch, 84, of rural Ashby, passed away Thursday, August 27, 2026 at the Good Samaritan in Battle Lake.

Bette Hult was born April 27, 1942, to Donald and Margaret (Frederick) Hult in Fergus Falls. She grew up in the Amor area on Twin Lake, attended country school at Amor through eighth grade and then graduated from Battle Lake High School in 1960.

In June of 1960, Bette married Lester Bensch at Amor Lutheran Church in Amor. After they were married, Bette went back to her parents' home while Les left for the Air Force. Over the next several years, Bette and Les lived in various places across the United States, they eventually returned to Minnesota and made it their permanent home.

Through the years Bette worked as a technical writer, then in 1975 she and Les purchased Viking Valley Ski Area which became Viking Valley Hunt Club in 1989. In 2022, Bette moved to Maplewood Manor in Elbow Lake, and in 2023 she moved to the Battle Lake Good Samaritan where she remained until her passing.

Bette always had a big garden and enjoyed canning with her sister Carole. She was an avid reader, and spent much time reading on her kindle. She enjoyed going on fishing trips with friends and family, listening to music, and of course her dogs-each one held a special place in her heart. Her favorite hobby was bowling, and she took part in a women's league for many years.

We would like to thank the staff at the Battle Lake Good Samaritan for their patience and the loving care that they showed Bette. Also, thank you to Vivie Hospice for the outstanding service they provided.

Bette was preceded in death by her husband, Les; her parents, and her brother, Patrick.

She is survived by her sister, Carole (Ron) Runningen; brother, Mike (Marta) Hult, and several nieces, nephews, and a host of good friends.

Bette's family requests that any flowers or plants be ordered from Petals and Posies in Battle Lake.

Celebration of Life Gathering: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Saturday, September 5, 2026 at Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls with a time for sharing at 3 p.m.

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com