A life well and fully lived ended peacefully, at home; on December 16, 2011. Betty will be deeply missed by her husband James and daughters Barbara (Graham), Pamela (Joe), and Nancy (Charles). She also leaves two very special grandsons, Dylan and Owen Riley, and was the cherished sister of Alan Platts (Eleanor) and his family.
Betty was born in Regina, Saskatchewan, and trained as a medical laboratory technologist. After marrying Jim in 1953, they spent several years in northern Alberta where May Contractors brought electrical power to rural areas. After Jim joined Canadian Utilities in Edmonton, the family moved to Whitehorse, transferred to Drumheller, and later to Grande Prairie. Betty and Jim retired and moved to Nanoose Bay in 1986.
Life was an adventure that Betty fully embraced. She had a keen sense of humour and showed determination in everything she undertook. Betty was a bright student, an accomplished figure skater and curler, ski instructor, private pilot, Boat Wise instructor, and hockey player. She was as skilled with a chainsaw as she was with a sewing machine, equally comfortable as a gowned lady at the regimental ball or spending the day outdoors in waders catching trout – truly an original. Betty was a caring person with a strong social conscience and a goal of making other people’s lives a bit better. This was apparent in Whitehorse where she provided grub-stakes to trappers, her involvement with the Friendship Centre in Grande Prairie, and as a volunteer with the Feral Cat Society in Nanoose Bay. During her twenty six years of retirement, PGOSA activities were the thread that created a tapestry of pleasure and purpose.
Betty had a wonderful touch with animals. Many dogs and cats had happy lives after being found on her doorstep. She loved the outdoors and was happiest when fishing, sailing, working in the garden, or storm watching with her beloved dog, Girl.
If desired, donations can be made to the SPCA or Oceanside Hospice Society in Betty’s memory.
A memorial service, officiated by Reverend Lynn Cawthra, was held on December 19, 2011 at Yates Funeral Service, Parksville, BC.
THANK YOU
The family of Betty May extends sincere and heartfelt thanks to the wonderful people whose help enabled us to care for Betty at home. Her quality of life was enhanced by your kindness, thoughtfulness, and professional care. Special thanks are extended to the staff of Sue’s Senior Care, VIHA Home and Community Care Program Nurses and Community Health Workers, Pharmacists at Shopper’s Drug Mart, volunteers at Oceanside Hospice and Legion Lending Cupboard, Dr. Carey Sulz, Reverend Lynn Cawthra, friends and neighbours. Your support brightened her days and helped us during a difficult time. James, Barbara, Pamela and Nancy.
YATES FUNERAL SERVICE & CREMATORIUM (250-248-5859) in care of arrangements.