Betty Ann Datta

Betty Ann Rehn Datta (Betty Boop), age 90, died at home at peace surrounded by her family, on September 16, 2017. Born November 17, 1926 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Married to Harold Datta, Betty traveled the world with her Foreign Service Officer husband, living in Thailand, Korea and the Philippines, and volunteering in some of the world's poorest communities to help improve the lives of everyone she touched. Betty and her husband retired in1983 and moved to Winona to join family and friends in the hometown of her husband. Betty became an active member of the Winona community. She joined the Winona Health Auxiliary and served as president of the organization. She was elected the president of the statewide auxiliary (Health Care Auxiliaries of Minnesota). She chaired the Birthday Ball, Winona Health's annual dinner/dance fundraiser. Betty also started the Victorian Tea and spearheaded the Fantasy of Trees, all successful fundraisers for the hospital. Betty worked as a buyer for the Glady Miller Gift Shop at the hospital for 15 years. Besides her work with the hospital auxiliary, Betty was also involved with the Winona County Court Services, serving as a Guardian ad Litem for many years. In service to the judge and the court, she was the representative for the best interests of children under the age of eighteen. An animal lover, she had Andre, her poodle, and Oscar, her Himalayan cat, and was an avid bridge player, belonging to a number of local bridge groups. She was an excellent golfer, winning several local tournaments. Preceded in death by her husband, Harold Datta, survivors include her son, Christopher (Debra), her daughter Stephanie Ayoub, her sons Jonathan (Lori) and Matthew (Susan) and by her 10 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Services will be held at St. Mary's Church in Winona at 11 a.m., Thursday, September 21,2017 with Reverend James Berning officiating. Interment will be at Woodlawn Cemetery. Relatives and friends are welcome at St. Mary's Church an hour before the mass. Memorial contributions to the National Cancer Society can be made out in her name. Please leave a memory of Betty and view her video tribute when it becomes available at www.hofffuneral.com. Hoff Celebration Of Life Center, Goodview, is assisting the family.