Betty Lou Chryst

Betty Lou J. (Tiedemann) Chryst, age 91, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2026. She was born January 24, 1935 in Somerset, WI to Mona (Chapman) Tiedemann and J. Henry Tiedemann.

Betty Lou excelled in school, receiving many accolades including graduating as valedictorian of her Somerset High School Class of 1953. Betty Lou was united in marriage with Robert Chryst on September 26, 1956. They lived briefly in Germany, while Robert served in the Army, then returned to the United States to start a family. They were blessed with four children, Brian, Wendy, Eric and Jennifer. In 1976, the family moved to northwestern WI where Betty Lou was instrumental in helping to build and operate the real estate business that Robert started in Balsam Lake, WI.

Betty Lou was an active member of the Lutheran church, singing in the church choir and teaching Sunday School. When she wasn’t working at the real estate office, homemaking or chasing one of the children, you could find her reading, doing embroidery, sewing & crafting, tending plants or birdwatching. She loved visits with family and friends, greeting everyone with a big Betty Lou smile and hug.

Betty Lou will remain in the hearts of her children Brian (Jean) Chryst, Wendy Chryst, Eric (Kristin) Chryst, Jennifer (Brian Heinz) Chryst, sisters Martha Bauer and Mary Ann Traiser, sister-in-law Nancy Chryst and many grandchildren & great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews and extended family.

Betty Lou was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Robert, daughter Amy Jane, brothers Phil (June) Tiedemann, Lyle Tiedemann, Roland Tiedemann, Rolf (Ilene) Tiedemann, brothers and sisters-in-law, Charles Traiser, Richard Bauer, David Chryst, Eleanor (Bud) Nelson, Clayton Chryst, Mary (Jerry) McAulay, Don (Shirley) Chryst, and Bill Chryst.

The children extend their sincere gratitude to the staff at Sophie’s Manor and Adoray Hospice for the love and support provided to our mother (and us); your kindness and care will not be forgotten.

A memorial service for Betty Lou will be held on December 5, 2026 at 10:00 am at Joy Lutheran Church in Centuria, WI. Visitation will be 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. and luncheon to follow at the church. A private interment will be held at a later date.