Kane, Elizabeth "Betty" Knoll Age 86, of Edina, died peacefully on May 17, 2020, surrounded by her children. Born in 1934 in St. Cloud, Minnesota, Betty attended Cathedral High School, where she played drums in the marching band, a skill she proudly demonstrated whenever the opportunity arose. After graduating from The College of St. Catherine in 1955 with a Bachelor's degree in nursing, she followed her mother and sister into a nursing career. At a Catholic Youth Association dance several years later, Betty met a young doctor from Brooklyn, N.Y. Despite car troubles on their first date, Bill was able to persuade Betty to stick with the relationship; the two were married six months later in June 1960. Five babies arrived over the next six years, which presented Elizabeth her life's favorite role a mother to children who could do no wrong in her eyes. Mom loved watching Kathleen perform; Billy play baseball; Stephen fix things; Tricia become a nurse; Annie find a bargain; and a walk with any one of them around Lake of the Isles. The only role that surpassed her devotion as a mother was the opportunity to be a grandma to her six grandchildren. Elizabeth was a talented and prolific artist who was inspired by all forms of art, including the art she observed in nature. She studied Classical Realism at Atelier Lack in Minneapolis and volunteered countless hours at the Edina Art Center. For most of her adult life, she continued to nurture her passion for art through classes and art travel. Both Elizabeth and Bill were fond of traveling. Bill's career as an orthopedic surgeon and lecturer afforded them an opportunity to experience a variety of cultures across five continents. They forged lifelong friendships with the couples they met at frequent professional meetings. Elizabeth is preceded in death by her husband Bill, parents Franklin and Agnes, and brother John "Big Bad" Knoll. Elizabeth is survived by her children Kathleen, William Jr. (Zena), Stephen (Joan), Patricia, and Anne. She also leaves behind her grandchildren: Jennifer (Trevon Milliard), Emily, Charlie, Brendan, Ben, and William; and great-grandchild Holly Elizabeth Milliard. She is also survived by her siblings and their spouses: Mary Knoll, Helen and David Fitzgerald, Frank and Margot Knoll, and Concy Rajkumar; as well as numerous relatives throughout Minnesota and across the U.S. The Kane family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude for the generous and loving care their mom received from the nursing staff at Gianna Homes in Minnetonka. Following a private interment at Lakewood Cemetery, a celebration of Betty's life will be held at a later date. Memorials are preferred to The Alzheimer's Association, Edina Art Center, or Gianna Homes of Minnetonka.

Published on May 24, 2020