Betty Martin

With hearts full of sorrow and gratitude, we announce the loss of an extraordinary, beautiful, strong, and gracious woman. A loving and loyal wife, mother, and grandmother, Betty Lue Martin of Fergus Falls, MN passed away unafraid and with an open heart on may 19, 2026, at home, surrounded by her loved ones and prayer. On this rainy day, just moments after our final goodbyes, the clouds parted and a ray of sunshine burst through as if letting us all know she made it home.

Born and raised in Puposky, MN to Carl and Esther Erickson, Betty was a force of nature - unyielding, loving, and unforgettable. She grew up with six siblings, in a humble home with little material wealth, but an abundance of love, laughter, faith and strength. At a very young age she learned hard work, survival, perseverance and resilience. Despite the challenges, she always made the best with what she had, and had a soft spot in her heart for the underdog. Betty mastered baking, canning, gardening and could make a meal out of nothing.

To friends and family, she was a place of safety and love. Her stern real-life guidance (tough love) kept everyone grounded. Neighbors, friends and family alike could always count on Betty for a listening ear, an honest word or a story from the past.

When reminiscing about her childhood, her favorite stories were about her love for her father Carl. He always made her feel safe and loved. She would talk about their adventures and mishaps while hunting, cutting trees, working on cars or just sharing coffee or ice cream. She loved talking about her brother Jack who passed away too young. But the stories that guaranteed a smile and a laugh were always of her best friend Maria from Crookston, MN. Maria and Betty had a sisterly bond and gave each other strength. Together they made many memories and filled one another's lives with laughter. Betty spoke fondly of their homemade dandelion and watermelon rind wine.

Betty had a love for country music and dancing. She discovered she had a knack for playing the drums and became the drummer for the "Country CB'RS" in the early 80's. Her simple pleasures were having coffee with friends and family, country music, reminiscing, poetry, watching thunderstorms, lilacs, birds and walking barefoot in the sun. She enjoyed watching home videos and going through old jewelry she found at rummage sales.

Betty devoted her life to her family, she cared for her father in his final days and worked herself to the bone raising her sons and granddaughter. People naturally gravitated towards her and if she liked you, she loved you.

In 1984 Betty met the love of her life, Kurtis Martin in Crookston, MN and they married in 1992. Together for 42 years, Kurt stayed by her side through thick and thin, in sickness and health with unwavering strength, devotion, loyalty, love, and gentleness. He was determined to give her the world and make sure she felt safe, secure, loved and always knew her worth.

Betty's spiritual foundation in Christ remained a beacon of light throughout her lifetime. Her passion for Christ and her willingness to help others with love and compassion has become her legacy.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Esther Erickson of Bemidji; an infant sibling; her sister, Janice Wynn of Bemidji, and her brothers, Oscar, Jack, and Robert Erickson of Fergus Falls, MN.

Betty is survived by her beloved husband, Kurtis Martin of Fergus Falls, MN; her sister, Leona Erickson of Pine River, MN; her brother, Kenneth Erickson of Bemidji, MN; her sons, Brian (Jessica) LaCoursiere of Fergus Falls, MN, Steven (Dawn) LaCoursiere of Underwood, MN; her granddaughter (whom she raised and loved as her own), Tashia (Christian) Wobig, along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They will continue to honor her legacy by carrying forward the values she instilled: honor, love, generosity, faith, and resilience.

To know and love Betty, was to know and love God.

We will miss her dearly, but her spirit and memories with live on, with every cup of coffee shared with friends and family.

Lux Aeterna

A private family graveside service was held at Knollwood Memorial Gardens, Fergus Falls, MN.

Arangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com