Christina Margaret (Smith) Betcke

Chris passed away peacefully at home with her family beside her. She is survived by her brother Stuart Smith (Earla) and sister Mary Ellis, and predeceased by her brothers Richard and Donald. Matriarch of the Betcke and Smith clans, Chris is remembered by her daughters Suzanne, Martha, and Laura, her sons-in-law David Northcote and David Joy, and her grandchildren Sarah and Graeme and granddaughter-in-law Maša. A Graduate of Bishop’s University class of 1952, Chris will also be missed by the many lifelong friends she made there, whom she considered family. Chris was an inspiration to her daughters, grandchildren, and everyone who knew her. She cared deeply for her friends and family, and was fiercely loyal to them all. Her wry humour and biting wit made her a fiery conversationalist, a master of the limerick, and a treasure to be around. Both curious and reflective, Chris had a passion for travel, ancient cultures, and history. She loved solving puzzles, whether in a good murder mystery, a New York Times crossword puzzle, or the family genealogy. In accordance with her wishes, a cremation has taken place, and a private family celebration of her life will be held at a future date. For those who wish, donations in Christina’s memory can be made to The Temmy Latner Centre for Palliative Care, North York Harvest Food Bank, or the Veterans Transition Network.