Obituary of Christine Elizabeth Eckersley

It is with the deepest sadness that we announce the passing of our most loving and special Mom and Grammy, Christine Elizabeth (Bette) Eckersley.  After a recent diagnosis of bone marrow cancer, Bette chose to end the suffering and pain on April 12, 2022 after spending precious time with her family, surrounded by love, and with Mike and Tannis by her side. Her death was like her life - with incredible strength, compassion, resilience, grace, and always a sense of humour.

Christine (Bette) was born in Vernon, BC on February 7, 1940, to the proud parents of James and Doreen Apsey, and her older brother, Michael Apsey. Bette attended school in Vernon, where she majored in Home Economics in high school and was a proud member of the MacIntosh Girls Pipe Band from the age of 12 until graduation. After graduating from high school in 1958, she went on to become an X-ray technician at the Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster, BC.

On Tuesday December 30, 1968, she married the love of her life, Jack Eckersley in Kelowna, BC. Together, Jack and Bette, welcomed two beautiful children into their lives, Tannis and Mike. From then on, it was all about family, and after their kids came the grandkids. Jackson was first on scene, born to Tannis and Tom Sorensen. Next came Michaela, then Tanner, both born to Mike and Barb Eckersley. Bette lived for her grandkids, and nothing was more precious to her.

Bette was well-known as one of the most talented bakers and crafters. Her perfectly sewn clothes, blankets, and pajamas were made for those she loved, and there was always an abundance of home-made baking and jams. Her crocheting and needlepoint were true works of art, from the beautiful handstitched pictures on the walls, to the intricate crocheted Barbie dresses, complete with pearl beads and corresponding trim on every dress. Bette also crocheted hundreds of cat blankets and cat balls for the SPCA. She lived a life of quiet service to those in her community.

We know she is at peace with her beloved Jack and Tigger by her side. At Bette’s request, there will not be a service. For those wishing to remember Bette, please make a donation, adopt, or foster a pet with Meant 2B Loved Pet Rescue Society at 872 300 Street, Kimberley, BC V1A 3J7 or via email money transfer at meant2Blovedpetrescue@gmail.com (please use password: rescue).

“There are no goodbyes. Wherever you’ll be, you’ll be in my heart.” -Ghandi