Elizabeth Jean (Betty) Benton
The family of Betty Benton, nee Borland, announce with profound sadness the passing of their beloved mother, Nana, and Great-Nana. Betty passed away peacefully on Friday, May 16, 2014 at the age of 92.
Betty was born in Grand Forks, British Columbia, on April 26, 1922 and was a dedicated daughter to her parents, David and Gladys Borland. She will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by daughters, Barbara (Rick) Heathfield, Shelley (Wayne) Schultz, and Susan (Chris) Hartley; grandchildren, Erin (Ryan), Sarah (Byron), Ian (Brittany), David (Megan), Jamie, Rebecca (Dan), and Ben; and her 8 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Ann Lywood (Don) in Calgary; her brother-in-law Jim Benton (Doris) in Toronto; and her many nieces and nephews.
Betty was predeceased by her best friend and husband of 69 years, Bob, in 2012. She and Bob met and were married in Prince Rupert. After living briefly in Montreal, they settled in North Vancouver where they raised their family. In retirement, they lived in Parksville and Qualicum Beach. After Bob passed away, Betty moved to Cranbrook, BC to be close to family.
As a young wife and mother, Betty worked side-by-side with Bob, helping to build their first homes and their own business. Betty’s love of travel inspired her to become a travel agent in her early retirement years. She and Bob enjoyed many wonderful times and friendships especially in Hawaii and at World Curling events throughout Europe.
Betty had a quick wit and a sense of mischief, which she passes on to her daughters. She enjoyed telling stories, always with a sparkle in her eye. Betty was a competitive curler and lawn bowler and, along with Bob, instructed and coached sight-impaired athletes in both of these sports. At age 72, she competed in the Commonwealth Games as a lawn bowling coach. At these Games one of her stories came true when she was invited to attend a dinner with the Queen.
Thank you to the dear friends, old and new, who have offered love and support to Mum and to our family. A special thanks to Sabine Pitt, Kate and Keith Mannister, Val Jeffery, and Jim Cousins. The family would also like to extend appreciation to the staff at The Gardens in Qualicum Beach, the staff at Joseph Creek Village and the FW Green Home, Dr. Pieterse, and McPherson Funeral Home in Cranbrook, BC.
There will be no service at Betty’s request.
In lieu of flowers, please consider honouring her memory by making a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Canadian Cancer Society, or a charity of your choosing.
A Reception to honour Betty’s life will be held at at 2:00 pm on Monday, May 26, 2014 at Yates Funeral Chapel.
Forever loved……..Always Remembered
To send a condolence to the family
please visit www.yatesfuneral.ca
YATES FUNERAL SERVICE & CREMATORIUM (250-248-5859) in care of arrangements.