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Betty M. Gibson
07-07-2026

Betty M. Gibson of Sioux Falls, SD peacefully passed away on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Sanford Hospice in Sioux Falls. She was 96 years old.

Born the day after Christmas, 1929, to Cyril and Frances Zilkoski, she was raised in the Flensburg, MN area on a farm. She was the middle of 8 sisters and 1 brother, and attended church and school in Little Falls, MN. As a young adult, Betty worked at a grocery store where she met her husband, Charles (Chuck) Gibson. They were married August 1, 1952.         

Chuck and Betty moved to Sauk Rapids, MN. They were blessed with 4 children. In 1965 the family moved to Watertown, SD, for Chuck’s job. In 1974 they moved to Sioux Falls. Betty worked at Sunshine Foods in Sioux Falls for many years and made lifelong friends. In the early 80’s they started Family Memorials by Gibson. Betty soon became the top salesperson.

She had a knack for gab, loved interacting with people and helping them during their hour of need. She continued to visit grieving families, long after the funeral, bringing candy and a smile.

In her earlier days Betty was an avid bowler, dancer and card player, and she loved to socialize. Those who knew Betty appreciated her quick-witted humor. She loved sharing jokes, spicy banter and a smile (sometimes with the person next to her at the grocery store). She had a keen interest in healthy food but loved to provide snacks and candy for visiting family. She was a fun spirit. She enjoyed a beer and a trip to the casino on occasion.

Betty was a dedicated Catholic with a strong faith. She read devotionals each day and prayed often. Chuck and Betty were founding members of St Michael Church, and they volunteered on a regular basis for many years. She had a heart for giving and loved to support important charitable organizations

Betty is survived by her children: Scott Gibson (Mary), Tim Gibson, Julie Lindeman (Steve), Jayne Valnes (Cully); 9 grandchildren: Tony and Mike Gibson, Maria (Gibson) Clarke, Jesse, Eric and Adam Masloski, Bailey Stegenga, Britony Karst and Brooklyn Reller; 19 great- grandchildren; sisters-in-law; Marcy Zilkoski and Gail Brown; brothers-in-law: Eddie Zilka and Dave Kirchner; along with many nieces and nephews, who loved her much. Betty was preceded in death by her parents, husband Charles Gibson, her sisters Lorraine, Laverne, Violet, Bernie, Carol, Alyce, and their spouses, Joanie, Shari and her brother John, and looked forward to reuniting with them in heaven.

Visitation will be at St. Michael Church in Sioux Falls, Thursday July 16 at 5:00 PM with a Scripture Vigil at 6:30 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday July 17 at 11:30 AM at St. Michael Church. A luncheon will immediately follow the funeral.