Breakwell, Elizabeth Joan “Betty”
Elizabeth Joan “Betty” Breakwell passed peacefully
August 8th, one day short of her ninetieth birthday.
She has gone to join her beloved husband Mel, parents J.C. and Florence Bailey, and four sisters. Left to remember her feisty ways are her children Sage, Lynnette (Ron), Martin (Elaine), Randy, Ken (Debra), and Kerry (Marion), sister Ruth, numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, many friends, her dear buddy Ann Klees, and her precious canine companion “Candy”.
Betty was a Qualicum girl, born in Dashwood / Little Qualicum in 1923 and moved to Qualicum at age 4. She attended Qualicum School - now The Old Schoolhouse Art Centre - and taught horseback trail riding on the family property. As Betty Parker, she began the Red Cross swimming program in Qualicum, teaching generations of children to swim and be “water safety wise” at our beautiful beach. Her vision to have an indoor pool finally became a reality some thirty years later in Qualicum’s noteworthy aquatic centre that boasts some 80,000 visitors a year.
Another swimming venture dear to her heart was the Mile Swim which she began in 1957 with the JC Bailey Memorial trophy which she presented in honour of her father who was a long distance swimming champion. Betty’s involvement in the community continued with working in Craig Reid’s grocery store and the CIBC bank for many years where she dealt with many Qualicum residents. Upon moving to The Gardens, Betty continued her community involvement by taking on the tasks of treasurer for the Resident’s Council, plus Tuck Shop and Saturday Night Live duties. She was a strong advocate for the village wheelchair accessible trail for all walkers, cyclists, dogs and companions. We will remember Mum, Granny, Betty, a proud member of the Legion for her dedication to making her community a better place for all. A toast to you from all your family and friends.
A celebration of Betty’s life will be held on September 28th at 2 o’clock in the Qualicum Legion Hall.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the food bank or Salvation Army.