Bette Jean McFarland

Bette McFarland, age 78, of Milbank, passed away on December 10, 2025.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, December 15, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Mundwiler Funeral Home in Milbank. Rev. Justin Neugebauer will officiate. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. There will not be a graveside service. Following the service, a time of fellowship will be held at the Milbank Pizza Ranch.

Bette Jean (Schumacher) McFarland was born on June 25, 1947. She was the daughter of William and Bessie (Berry) Schumacher. Bette grew up on the family farm in the Big Stone City, SD, area. She completed her formal education and was united in marriage with Victor Duane McFarland on July 29, 1967, in Ortonville, MN.

Bette and Victor farmed together for many years. The farm life allowed Bette’s love of animals to flourish. She especially adored the spring lambs, the sheep, her dogs and cats. She had a caring heart and worked for many years as a CNA at St. William’s Care Center. She also took care of displaying the Hallmark cards at Pamida in Ortonville, MN, and at ALCO in Milbank, SD. She absolutely loved her family and would attend all activities and get-togethers. She was always willing to help others and her family. She had a funny sense of humor and enjoyed jokes. Bette loved to share a cup of coffee and have a conversation with friends and her family. As tender as she was, she also was strong-willed and set in her ways.

Bette McFarland is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Jeremiah and Vanessa McFarland of Milbank, SD; three grandchildren: Nathan, Joci, and Carson; all of Milbank, SD; and a dear friend, Kim Blees of Nassau, MN.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Victor; and two sisters: Sylvia and Barbara.