March 25, 1930 – January 16, 2015
Betty passed away peacefully at Selkirk Place in Victoria on Friday, January 16, after a brief illness. A resident of Victoria since 2009, Betty was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, where she lived until the age of 15, before moving to Newcastle-on-Tyne where she met her future husband Dave, to whom she was married for 65 years. They and their son Alan immigrated to Canada in 1957, spending their first year in Edmonton, followed by five years in Fort St. John, where daughters Margaret and Heather were born. In 1963, they moved to Nanaimo, which was to be their home for the next 46 years, during which they formed many lasting friendships and engaged in a wide range of social activities. A genuine “people-person” at heart, Betty enjoyed many years working for various businesses in downtown Nanaimo, such as Sweet Sixteen, Brian Ball’s, Lindsay’s, Purdy’s Chocolates, and Central Drugs, and also ran her own grocery store for several years in the 1960’s. She and Dave were active members of Royal Canadian Legion in Lantzville and Branch 256 in Nanaimo, where they were involved in countless social activities. They were accomplished ballroom dancers renowned for their elegant moves on the dance floor. Passionately proud of her Scottish heritage, Betty was a lifelong enthusiast of curling, the highland games and the music of the pipes. Her zest for life saw her take to the stage as a member of Nanaimo women’s choir Sweet Adelines for several years. She was also a passionate knitter, producing an array of comfy pullovers that the members of her family wore with pride. When it came to cooking, her Yorkshire puddings and mincemeat tarts were miniature works of art. Despite failing health in later years, she retained her sense of humor and cheerful spirit to the end and brought out the best in everyone who knew her.
She is survived by husband Dave, son Alan (Yvonne), daughters Margaret (Craig) and Heather, grandchildren Domenic, Denise, Jennifer (Blair) and Shannon, along with other relatives in Canada, the USA and the UK.
No service by request. A celebration of Betty’s life will take place at a date to be determined.
Her family wishes to thank the staff on Crofton Unit at Selkirk Place for the care provided in Betty’s final years.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Bros. Funeral Home
www.mccallbros.com
22 Responses
Dave Heather, Margaret, Alan, and Families
So sorry to hear of Betty’s passing. She will live on in our memories ,such a joyful, person. Please take care. Love to you all. Marjorie
So sorry to hear about aunty Betty. I have such happy memories of staying with her and Dave in Nanaimo back in ’86, particularly sitting on the back deck together watching the raccoons play. She was a wonderful host and tour guide during our visit. Very best wishes to Dave and all my Canadian cousins at this difficult time. Our thoughts are with you all. Guy & Jeanet (Durham, UK)
Margaret, Craig , Heather, Alan and families
We are saddened by your loss and want to extend our sincere condolences to the entire family. Although we did not have the priviledge of meeting your mum, Margaret, we knew her through your stories and can see that many of her traits and passions have been passed on to her family. What a brave and adventurous person she was and what an interesting journey she had. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Lucy and Brad Roman
Hi Dave, Heather, Margaret & Alan,
I was so sad to hear of your mother’s passing, dear ~Betty Boop~ as we called her at Lions Cove, she was a joy to work with always a big smile on her face and oh how she loved to dance. & sing. I will treasure the many great memories I have of both her & Dave and the friendship I enjoyed with the 3 of you as well. Take care .
Love Judy
My thoughts are with you all at this difficult time. I remember visiting your parents in Nanaimo and the warmth and generosity they showed. Going to the Legion with them Enjoying the sights of the island. Memories that never fade.
My father spoke often, and with great affection, of his little sister.
I’ll never forget camping at Englishman River and having to carry Mom back up from the river!
She was such a hoot.
Wishing your family all the best and warm condolences.
Michael
Auntie Betty was sadly an Auntie I never got to meet but I felt I had known her all my life thanks to Auntie Rae. At one point round 15 years ago, I planned to move to Canada for a year a regret I shall carry always! My Father Stan Auntie Betty’s youngest brother always spoke with such admiration for his dear sister that he loved very dearly. May you rest in peace dear Auntie Betty xxxx
My condolences to you all. She was a beautiful spirit and will be remembered fondly by all whom she touched.
Love and hugs to you all.
Margaret, Craig, and Family,
Our thoughts are with you all during this difficult and sad time. Your Mum sounds like an amazing person and we know your wonderful memories will be treasures you will keep forever.
Love,
Sandra & Randy
My deepest sympathies for your loss. I am very proud to have had the pleasure of meeting your Mom. Her sense of humour still brings giggles to my heart. Rest in peace.