Elizabeth “Beth” Ann Ask

Elizabeth “Beth” Ann Ask, age 79, of Rochester, Minn., passed away on December 6, 2024, at Mayo Clinic Hospital, St. Marys Campus.

Born on January 17, 1945, to Leo and Helen Doherty of Canton, Minn., Beth grew up on the family farm near Canton and graduated from Mabel-Canton High School. On August 22, 1965, she married Allyn Brenno of Mabel, Minn. While Allyn was serving in the military, the family moved to Germany, where they lived for three years before eventually settling in Rochester, Minn., and later Byron, Minn. After Allyn’s passing in 1979, Beth remarried to Richard Ask in 1986, and they made their home in Rochester.

Beth worked in various positions, with her most recent at the Mayo Clinic Blood Bank before retiring. Following her retirement, she devoted many years to volunteering at the St. Marys gift shop, where she made a positive impact on others.

Beth was a woman of many passions. She found joy in playing card games, taking afternoon pontoon rides, dancing, traveling, solving sudoku puzzles, tending to her garden, and savoring a glass of wine on her deck. Above all, she loved spending time with her family and friends, and she always sought to be part of the action. Known for her vibrant energy, she never wanted to miss out on a good time. Beth’s zest for life was contagious, and she taught her three daughters the importance of being strong, independent women.

Beth is survived by her beloved husband Richard, of Rochester, Minn.; daughters Michelle (Todd) Pyfferoen of Byron, Minn., and Krista Brenno of Minnetonka, Minn.; stepsons Mike (Carol) Ask of Mesa, Ariz., and Greg (Kimber) Ask of Boulder, Colo.; four grandchildren: Ashley (Tyler) Hunzeker, Allen (Stephanie) Pyfferoen, Alica Chaney and Trevor St. Germaine; four step-grandchildren: Michael Ask, Tasmyn Ask, Carson Ask, and Thayer Ask; six great-grandchildren, brothers Carroll (Elaine) Doherty and Bob (Kelly) Doherty, and sisters Kay Kubik, Colleen (Jerry) Milz, and Jene (Keith) Bodensteiner. 

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Allyn; parents Leo and Helen Doherty, sister Connie Mahoney; brother Greg Doherty, and daughter Lisa Brenno.

A memorial Mass was held at 11 a.m. Friday, December 13, 2024, at St. Pius X Catholic Church, with visitation one hour prior to the service. 

Beth’s legacy of love, laughter, and strength will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. She will be deeply missed.

Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com.