Bette Ann Hyde McDonnell passed from this world into God’s eternal garden on April 17, 2013. She passed peacefully and free from pain while in hospice care following a massive stroke.
Born in Lamoni, Iowa on September 8, 1924, Bette was the fourth of five children born to Nola Park Hyde and Charles Leverett Hyde. A college internship in retail marketing led her to Chicago, where she met and married Patrick Francis McDonnell. The two chased a cherished dream to escape city life, and purchased Gateway Hungry Jack Lodge on the Gunflint Trail north of Grand Marais, Minnesota. This they owned and operated from 1958 to 1970. From their home in the good woods, Pat and Bette launched the lives of their six children, blessing them with both strong roots and sturdy wings.
Bette managed two supper clubs in Grand Marais before opening the Attic Gift Shop. These were Kerfoot’s Kove and Kerfoot’s Common Ground. She initially managed the Attic and then bought the shop, which she ran until her retirement at age 80.
Bette was a superb cook who took special delight in preparing large meals for an appreciative crowd. She loved jazz and was a faithful member of the Grand Marais cadre of Frank Gillis fans right up to the end. Bette was happiest and at her spiritual best when working in her beautiful garden or when out and about searching for wildflowers with her dear friends on one of her weekly Wednesday walks in the woods. She was a terrific mom and a loyal friend.
Bette’s ashes will be interred at Saint John’s Cemetery in Grand Marais next to those of her husband, Pat, during a private family gathering. There will be a memorial gathering to celebrate her life later this summer to which all will be welcome. Those wishing to honor Bette are gratefully encouraged to tend a garden of their own, plant a tree, or make a contribution towards the funding and maintenance of Harbor Park in Grand Marais. Bette was instrumental to bringing the park from plan to fruition. It was a place she dearly enjoyed. This can be done through the Grand Marais Park Board.
On behalf of her large and grateful family, we thank you for your prayers, your kind thoughts, and your friendship.
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