| Honored by: | David M. Svingen |
| Brick location: | D:7 map |
Margaret E. (Betty) Dietz was born in Wahpeton, North Dakota in 1929 and graduated from Wahpeton High School and the North Dakota State School of Science. She married my father, Dale Svingen, in 1950 and together they raised six children. My mother's love for my father, my brothers, sisters, and me, her deep Catholic faith, and her enthusiastic service to others in the community have been her hallmarks.
In retirement she continues to serve others every day whether it is teaching, reading to a special-needs child at school, volunteering at the community hospital, helping a neighbor, or bringing happiness to her friends and family through her thoughtfulness.
My mother was my first teacher. She introduced me to the wonders of learning and encouraged me to do my best in school. She taught me to think for myself. She showed me the peacefulness of a strong faith life and the satisfaction that comes from helping others.
I am still learning from my mother and I draw upon that knowledge now as I raise my own children. Above all, my mother taught me that being a husband and parent is the most important thing that I will ever do.
Submitted on 7/1/96