Obituary of Elizabeth Jean 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 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 and 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. Betty and Bob met and were married in Prince Rupert. After living briefly in Montreal they settled in North Vancouver and raised their family there. 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. She 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, and the staff at Joseph Creek Village and the F.W. 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 Yates Funeral Home on Monday, May 26, 2014 at 2:00 pm.

 

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com