Bethany Andreasen, age 68, of Minot, North Dakota, formerly of Withee, Wisconsin, passed away on June 6, 2026. Bethany was loved by family, friends, colleagues, and former students alike and shares a deep and meaningful memory with each.
Bethany was born on May 11, 1958 to Norman and Charlotte Andreasen and was raised on the Andreasen family dairy farm near Withee. Growing up in rural Wisconsin helped shape her lifelong curiosity about people, communities, and the stories that connect us. She carried that curiosity throughout her life, developing a deep appreciation for history, learning, travel, and the arts.
After graduating from Owen-Withee High School in 1976, Bethany earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire. She later received both her Master's degree and Ph.D. in American History from Cornell University, completing her doctoral studies in 1987.
In 1991, Bethany joined the faculty of Minot State University, where she served as a Professor of History for more than three decades. She specialized in twentieth-century American history, with academic interests that included social, cultural, intellectual, and educational history. Throughout her career, she inspired generations of students through her dedication to teaching, scholarship, and critical thinking. She also mentored future educators and contributed to numerous historical and educational initiatives that enriched both the university and the broader community.
Outside of her academic career, Bethany enjoyed traveling, exploring museums and historic sites, attending theater productions, singing in choir, cooking, and supporting the arts. She believed learning was a lifelong pursuit and found joy in discovering new places, ideas, and experiences. She was also an avid Packer’s Fan!
Those who knew Bethany will remember her intelligence, independence, curiosity, and commitment to education. Her life touched countless students, colleagues, friends, and family members, and her influence will continue through the many lives she helped shape.
Bethany is survived by her brother, Rod Andreasen; her sister, Cara Brzezinski and husband Gary Brzezinski; her nieces, Tyra Wennesheimer and Krista Mills; and Krista's family, Brandon, Aubrey, Ila, and Charlotte; nephews Nathan Andreasen and Joshua Andreasen.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Norman and Charlotte Andreasen, and her brother, Bradley Andreasen.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 26 at Nazareth Lutheran Church, Withee, Wisconsin. Visitation will be at the church beginning at 10:00 with the service to follow at 11:00.
