Betty Ruth Brenny (Smestad-Mistelske)

Betty Ruth Brenny (Smestad-Mistelske), a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025, at the age of 79. She was born in Fridley, Minnesota on January 29, 1946. Betty was a devoted mother to Aron Smestad (Betty), Tracy Taylor (Neil), Jodi Donahue (Glenn) and Tony Smestad (Tracy); as well as a loving sister to Deloris Trombley, Johnny Mistelske (Caroline), Barbra Walters (Randy), Jeanette Christensen (Mike), Patsy Sunderland (Warren) and David Mistelske; stepmother to Jimmy and Lisa Brenny; as well as grandmother to eleven and great grandmother to fifteen children.

She was preceded in death by her daughter Jodi Donahue, her husband James Brenny, former husband Samuel Smestad, special friend John Guilfoyle; parents Ann Agnes (Walzak) Mistelske and Clifford Ralph Mistelske; as well as her brothers and sisters, Sonny Mistelske, Charlie Mistelske, Kathleen Amborn, Thomas Mistelske, Jerry Mistelske and Tammy Olson.

Betty went to Fridley High School and afterwords enjoyed a career as a skillful beautician for many years. Betty will always be remembered for her extravagant cakes for any occasion from weddings, birthdays, showers or just because. You could count on her to bring the flowers, her famous “Betty’s Baked Beans” and a big bag of goodies and treats for the kids to any occasion. Betty was known for her great meals served with open arms and a warm invitation to all. Her love of thrifting was immense, but her greatest joy was raising her four children, holiday and birthday gatherings, and the very special Mistelske Family Christmas Eve celebrations at her mother’s home. Growing up Betty enjoyed roller skating, bowling, dancing to great country classics and volunteer work including the Mothers Club.

A memorial service will be held on Friday March 21st at Miller Funeral Home 6210 Hwy 65 NE Fridley, MN 55432.

Visitation for Immediate family 12:00 to 1:00, Open reviewal will be at 1:00 PM and prayer Service at 2 PM.