Betty L. (Nikunen) Ornberg

Betty L. (Nikunen) Ornberg, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2024, at Edgewood Vista Senior Living in Virginia. Her family expresses deep gratitude for the care and friendships of the staff of Edgewood Vista over the past several years, along with the support of Caring Edge Hospice in her final months.

Betty was born on February 12, 1932, in Buhl, MN; where she spent her childhood, and graduated from Buhl’s Martin Hughes High School. She then embarked on her journey of caring for others, proudly earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from St. Scholastica St. Mary's School of Nursing in 1952. Her dedication to the profession was evident throughout her admired career as a Registered Nurse at Virginia Regional Medical Center (VRMC), retiring in 1981. She is still fondly remembered by many of her coworkers.

After retiring, she enjoyed time with family and friends, traveling, walking, starting many collections, and baking; her cookie jar was always full. She was an avid reader, finding solace and adventure within the pages of countless books, which were her companions in quiet moments. She enjoyed trivia games and often had quick, lively answers.

Betty's spirit touched many lives, and she was cherished by her family. She is survived by her loving son, David A. Ornberg of Cleveland OH; her daughter, Dawn Marie Cole (Karl Brysch) of Ely Lake; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a great-great grandson; and nieces and nephews afar all of whom she found extreme pride.

She is preceded in death by her adored husband, Elroy M. Ornberg; her son, Daniel J. Ornberg; her brother, Donald A. Nikunen; her parents, Arne and Irene Nikunen; and her daughter-in-law, Ruth Ornberg.

A Memorial Service is planned for Friday, May 3, 2024 at 11:00 AM officiated by Pastor Liz Cheney of Our Saviors Lutheran Church of which Betty was a member for many years. The service will be located at the Olcott Park Greenhouse in Virginia, a cherished place where Betty spent many years residing in the Olcott Park house with her husband, Elroy, then park superintendent. Her life celebration in Olcott Park returns her to the place of her most cherished memories. Gifts in memory can be directed to Friends of the Greenhouse or the Olcott Park foundation fountain restoration fund.

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