Elizabeth Amelia "Betty" Giere, age 87 of Rochester passed away on March 8, 2011 at Samaritan Bethany Heights Nursing Home.

Elizabeth Amelia Emholtz was born on April 6, 1923 in Berne, MN to Walter and Amelia Emholtz. Betty grew up in rural Dodge County, and graduated from Mantorville High School. She married Francis Giere on March 27, 1942 in Rock Dell, MN. The couple farmed in Rock Dell until Francis passed away in September of 1966. Betty worked at Dayton's for over 30 years. She enjoyed traveling, playing cards, gardening and listening to the Twins. She was a wonderful cook, and loved country music. She was a beloved grandmother, mother, aunt, great-grandmother, and friend.

Betty is survived by her grandchildren, Susan (Tim) Miller of Eyota, James Giere of Rochester, Steven (Kristine) Giere of Mantorville, Marsha Giere of Rochester, a daughter-in-law, Regina Giere of Rochester, two brothers, Richard Emholtz of Oklahoma, Wally Emholtz of Pine Island, and a sister-in-law Margaret Giere of Rochester and great- grandchildren, Teigen, Emma, Saige, Alissa, and Nicholas.

She is preceded in death by her husband, a son Michael, three sisters and four brothers.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday, March 12, 2011 at Macken Colonial Chapel (original building) at Macken Funeral Home officiated by Rev. Andrew Nelson. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services. Burial will be at a later date in Rock Dell, at Zion Cemetery.

Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com