Sylvia A Betlach, age 89, passed away Sunday, June 2, 2024 at Our House Assisted Living in River Falls. She was born Dec.19, 1934 to Morris and Florence (Griffey) Olson in River Falls. Sylvia grew up on a farm in Martell Township and moved to the city of River Falls during high school and graduated from River Falls High School in 1953. On Oct. 6, 1956, she married Gerald Betlach. Sylvia worked as a surgical tech for many years at the River Falls Area Hospital.
Sylvia loved to read, play cards, birding and laughing with friends. Sylvia and Jerry spent many weekends camping with family and lifelong friends and traveling in their motorhome. After retirement they spent winters in Texas. When in River Falls, she volunteered with multiple local organizations.
Sylvia is survived by her children: Deb (Steve) Wros of River Falls, Rita Rodriguez of Grand Rapids Mich., and David (Shirley) Betlach of River Falls; grandchildren: Kristin Bores, Patrick Wros, Teresa Rodriguez, Nick (Cassie) Rodriguez, and Becca Betlach; brother-in-law Gene Hilmanowske; nieces, nephews and friends. She is preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; mother, Florence Griffey; father, Morris Olson; stepfather, Wilbur Griffey; sister, Donna Hilmanowske.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 13, 2024 at St. Bridget Church (211 E. Division St. River Falls, WI) and streamed live through the link just below this obituary. Visitation will also be on Thursday, June 13, 2024 from 9:30-11 a.m. at the church. Interment will be in St. Bridget Cemetery in River Falls. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
