Betty Ann (Schafer) Goebel

Betty Ann (Schafer) Goebel, 94, originally of Janesville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at Autumn Grace in Mankato, MN.

Betty was born on January 25, 1932, to William E. and Veda (Yates) Schafer in Janesville, Minnesota. She graduated from Janesville High School, where she was an energetic cheerleader, the school’s drum majorette, and a saxophone player in the marching band. Later in life, she furthered her education by attending classes at Minnesota State University, Mankato.

On August 6, 1950, Betty married the love of her life, Del Goebel, in Janesville. Together they built a beautiful life and made their home in Eagle Lake, where they raised their 5 children and resided throughout their 75 years of marriage. For 33 years, Betty (and Del) owned and managed the Green Lawn Motel in Eagle Lake, where Betty became well-known for her hard work, dedication, and hospitality.

Faith and music were central to Betty's life. As an active, longtime member of the Eagle Lake United Methodist Church, she shared her talents by teaching Sunday school, serving as the church organist for many years, and directing the annual children's Christmas pageant. Later, she became a dedicated member of Hilltop United Methodist Church, where she faithfully sang in the choir and participated in numerous Bible studies, church dinners, bake sales, and craft bazaars.

Betty loved staying active and social. She treasured her time with friends, whether meeting up at the Racket and Fitness Club, taking aerobics classes at the Mankato Y, or singing with The Mankato Glee Club ensemble.Her youthful spirit was unmatched—as a former cheerleader, she could still turn a cartwheel and twirl her baton well into her 60s!

A natural musician with a beautiful voice, she often performed with her friends LaDonna and Sally for special events, even once stepping into a recording booth with Sally to cut a beautiful record single.

Betty always had the coffee pot on and a fresh batch of yummy baked goods ready to welcome anyone who dropped by. Her grandchildren knew that a visit to Grandma’s meant enjoying her legendary specialties, including her cinnamon rolls, rhubarb crunch, crazy cake, or seven-layer bars.

Above all, Betty cherished her family. Hosting holiday gatherings that filled her home with over 30 loved ones was her specialty. Her absolute "happy place" was gathering her children and grandchildren around the piano for family sing-alongs. She and Del also treasured their peaceful time spent "up North" at the Goebel Property, playing lively card games of cribbage and pepper. One of their favorite evening traditions was simply driving the backroads together, counting deer, and stopping for ice cream along the way. Her family and friends will forever cherish the wonderful memories she created.

Betty is survived by her loving husband of 75 years, Del; five children, Russ (Brenda) Goebel, Kim (Goebel) Horecka, Randy (Vicki) Goebel, Gordy (Binette) Goebel, and Bill (Terri) Goebel; her grandchildren, Clark Goebel, Claire Campbell, Katie Horecka, Shanan (Ryder) Seeler, Kelly (Dan) Rivers, Tara (Clay) Brown, Abbie (Colin) Weerts, Beth Goebel, Haley Goebel, and Hunter (Makayla) Goebel; and great-grandchildren, Nayla, River, Anna, Allie, Jack, Vinny, Brecken, Kieran, Wyatt, and Savanna.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Veda Schafer; her infant brother, Gordon; and her three sisters, Helen, Jean and Ruth.

Service Information

Visitation: Tuesday, June 9, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Woodland Hills Funeral Home.

Memorial Service: Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 12:00 PM (Noon) at Woodland Hills Funeral Home.

Reception: A light lunch will be served at the funeral home immediately following the service.