Wendy Jo Beffel

Wendy Jo Beffel, age 76, of Maple Lake, died Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis.

Memorial Services will be held 4:30 p.m. Monday, January 26, 2026, at Dingmann Funeral Care Chapel, Maple Lake with visitation one hour prior. Fr. Kevin Magner will officiate.

Wendy Jo Deters was born to Louie and Dorothy (Swardinski) Deters on January 30, 1949, in Clinton, Iowa. Jo grew up in her hometown of Clinton. After graduating high school, she attended Marycrest College in Davenport, Iowa, earning her degree in education. Her enthusiasm for life and the arts was evident as she actively engaged in theater, paving the way for a vibrant and inspiring career in education.

On March 25, 1972, just six weeks after their serendipitous meeting, Jo married her soulmate, Mark Beffel, in Bettendorf, Iowa. Together, they embarked on a beautiful journey filled with love, laughter, and the joys of family. Jo dedicated herself to teaching, primarily in the field of special education. She lived a life marked by love, dedication, and the joy of nurturing the minds of countless children. Over the years, she worked in various schools, including in the towns of Omaha, Cincinnati, Golden Valley, and Two Rivers. Jo's ability to connect with her students and provide them with the support they needed was a hallmark of her education career.

Her experience and expertise in schools paved the way for the care that she was able to provide for her son, David, throughout his life. Through every move and transition, her care and love she provided him never wavered.

Jo and Mark began their family in the Quad Cities area before settling in Cedar Falls, Iowa. Eventually, they made their way to Golden Valley, where they continued to build cherished memories. After spending three years in Omaha and three years in Cincinnati due to Mark's job, they found their home in Two Rivers, WI for 15 years. In their retirement years, Jo wanted to be closer to her sons and grandchildren. They moved to their lake home on Maple Lake, near Maple Lake, Minnesota, a cherished retreat that still brings much joy to the entire family.

Jo's unwavering faith was a cornerstone of her life. Raised in the Catholic tradition, she instilled these values in her sons, creating a strong family bond that celebrated their shared beliefs and traditions. Her devotion to her faith and family remained steadfast throughout her life.

Fishing, embroidery, puzzles, bowling, gardening were just a few of the activities Jo enjoyed. She had a special gift for crafting memories, whether through cooking with her grandkids, nurturing her beloved dogs, or engaging in spirited games and family activities.

Jo's love for Christmas was legendary; she meticulously planned her festive celebration months in advance, delighting in the joy of giving and the art of wrapping presents. Family vacations were another of her cherished traditions. Jo saved and budgeted throughout the year, always ensuring that her family could create lasting memories together.

Jo is survived by her husband of 53 years, Mark of Maple Lake; sons, Dylan of Ham Lake and Damian (Allyson) of Annandale; grandchildren, Noah, Aurora, Audrey, Marketta, Max, and Isabella; and other family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Louie and Dorothy Deters; son, David; and sister, Dee Dee Deters.

Arrangements are entrusted to Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Maple Lake.

Obituary, Guestbook, Video Tribute and Funeral Webcast online at www.dingmannfuneral.com