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Elizabeth "Betty" Dutcher, 93, of Fort Dodge, passed away on Monday, September 21, 2026, at the Simpson Center of Friendship Haven.
Private family services will be held at a later date.
Elizabeth Ann Kern was born on November 8, 1932, in Mason City, Iowa, to Adam and Catherine (Winters) Kern. She grew up in Fort Dodge and attended Corpus Christi Academy.
Betty was united in marriage to James M. Dutcher on November 7, 1953. To this union, four children were born: Bill Dutcher, Mike (Lori) Dutcher, Teresa (Tim) Mernka and Tom (Toni) Dutcher. Betty cherished her family, and her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren brought her tremendous joy throughout her life.
Betty will be remembered for her popcorn balls, sorghum cookies, apple turnovers and apple pies. She enjoyed baking and putting puzzles together, and she especially loved spending time with and watching her grandchildren, always happy to lend a hand whenever needed. Her home was often filled with the warmth of family, the aroma of something baking and the simple joys she loved.
Throughout the years, Betty worked at Tobin, Hormel and the Community Orchard.
Betty is survived by her children, Bill Dutcher, Mike (Lori) Dutcher and Teresa (Tim) Mernka; sister, Helen Munn; daughter-in-law, Toni Dutcher; sister-in-law, Judy Kern; and her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James, who passed away after 53 years of marriage; son, Tom Dutcher; sister, Ann (Gerald) Baker; brother, Jim Kern; brother-in-law, Ed Munn; and grandson, Jacob Rautanen.
Memorials may be directed to the family for their discretion.