Betty Lou Dowe, 89, of Harmony, Minn., passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at her winter home in Arizona.
Betty was born on June 21, 1936, in Davenport, Iowa, to LeRoy and Olivia (Hetterman) Keenan. She graduated from high school in Pompano Beach, Fla., and later attended beauty school in Chicago while living with her future in-laws in McHenry, Ill. On July 4, she met the love of her life, Donald Dowe, and the two were married on September 13, 1958. Together they built a life filled with love, faith, and family, raising four children.
Betty had a passion for the arts, especially her beloved craft of Rosemaling. She created beautiful works and generously shared her talent through teaching and online tutorials. She also gave tirelessly to her community, contributing to projects like the Vesterheim Cookbook and founding Golden Happenings, a program providing meaningful activities for those aged 55 and older.
Betty is survived by her children: Debra (Chris) Skaalen, Marsha (Loren) Indahl, Donald (Alex Erwin) Dowe Jr., and Gregory Dowe; grandchildren: Alexander (Kendall) Skaalen, Ashleigh Skaalen, Samantha (Kyle) Koch, James (Krista) Skaalen, Gillian Dowe and Race Cuckler; and six great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband Don, her parents, and her grandchildren Keenan and Isabella Dowe.
Betty will be remembered for her creativity, generosity, and the love she poured into her family and community.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Bonnie Phillips says
No! She was a friend in Tampa Florida. And is missed.