Hi Mom!

I hope you can read this message in heaven!  I just want to tell you once again how much I love you!  Not a day goes by that I don't think of you.  I keep a picture of you in my kitchen, living room and bedroom, so I can always smile back at you and say "Hi Mom!".  Seeing your face inspires me to be the best I can and reinforces your love for me. I am so thankful for all you've done for me, and all the lessons I've learned.  

As time goes on, with age, I appreciate more and more your love of family, your devotion to our welfare, and your tenacity as an excellent mother.  You raised us well, Mom.  For that I will be forever thankful!  Your philosphies, values, advice, and gifts of life will forever be inherent, and will be passed on for many generations.  I am proud to have you as my Mom!

Thank you for the wonderful memories of my childhood, the craziness of my teens, and the reestablishment of our relationship.  It's something I will pass on to everyone, and hopefully make a difference for someone.

You can be sure us kids will always stay close.  You made sure of that! You instilled that wonderful family value in us, that will go on forever. 

I love you Mom, and will miss you forever, and will never ever forget you!  I feel you watching over me daily, and wish you could reach out and hug me, and give me one of those great big, beautiful lipstick kisses, and hear your laughter again.  Your voice is forever gentle in my mind. I wish you peace and happiness, and will savor the day we see each other in Heaven!  I know you're watching me!  I love you!  

Your forever grateful daughter,
Lisa.

Dearest Mom,

It’s been a year without you – I miss you so very much.  Never in my life have I experienced this kind of loss and loneliness. There are so many times I wish I could just reach out and touch you, then the reality of never being able to do that again hits me; I have no choice but to accept that I’ll never feel the comfort of your voice, the feel of your hug or the loving assurance that only you could give me.  

There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think of you in some way; maybe by something you’ve said or done, remembering something you liked or disliked but most of all in the way you always loved me. Losing you has taught me to value every minute of every day with those I love. You’ve shown me that true love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be.  Your spirit continues to teach me values in life; I will pass these values on to my children and grandchildren.

You recently came to me through a dream, the best part of it was the glowing feeling of peace, warmth and comfort that came over me with your presence; I can still feel it – it was so wonderful!

I pray that your soul rests peacefully in heaven and that God blesses you for eternity.

Love your Daughter, Cindy

My Mother
“God wanted me to learn some things:  what joy a gentle touch can bring, what kindness and compassion do, and how a firm hands helps us, too; what strength there is in gentleness, what power lies in a caress, how one can show love for another and he gave me you … My Mother”. 
I’ve lost my dearest and best friend, My Mother.  My grief and sorrow sometimes consume me, although I know she is with me from heaven, I long to hear her voice and share life with her.  I remember my last hug from her as I said good-bye after celebrating her 75th birthday in Dallas last October.  If only I would have known that this would be the last kiss good-bye that she would ever give me, I would have taken more time to make it last for an eternity – I wish I could go back and do it over.  There will never be anyone that could take her place in my heart, or anyone who will know me as well as she did.  She had a way of making me feel special as she so selflessly gave me the strength to become the person I am today.  I know I was truly loved, as I truly loved her, and in turn she taught me to show this love to my children and grandchildren and in turn they have learned the same.  This will be her legacy.
I can’t begin to express how much I will miss my Mother for the rest of my life.  In my last words to her I asked that she spread her wings in heaven and always watch over us, protect us and guide us – I know she is with me and we will meet again in heaven.  Thank you, God, for making her my Mother.
I Love You Mom,
Your Daughter, Cindy

I opened my hockey bag last night and saw my Mary Kay Bag (in the shape and color of a hockey puck) Betty gave me this bag.  I sat on the bench and tried not to cry.  What a wonderful remembrance, every time I open that bag to do what I love to do with my friends I can be reminded of her friendship and the love she had for doing thing with her friends and how she included me as family.   I will miss you Betty.

I talked to God this morning, I asked Him to give ALL of you peace and hope and strength in your time of loss and sadness.   Mothers and Grandmothers are such important people in our lives and I know that your hearts will ache for your Mom and Grandma for years to come.  We will be praying that all of your memories will carry each and every one of you through the toughest times.   We will be remembering Betty with special thoughts that we will lovingly share with Jarron, Amaree, Haley, Joshua and Lilly, so they will always have memories to hold onto about Great Grandma.
With Love and Friendship,
Fred & Deb

A Grandmother is....

A Grandmother is one of life's best gifts,
Someone to treasure all life through,
She's caring and loving,
Thoughtful and true,

Someone who is always a special part of your life,
Someone who holds a prime place in your heart,
She's a mentor, a confidant and also a friend,
Someone on whose love you can depend.

A Grandmother always has your best interests at heart,
She's someone so dear and so good,
She's a blessing, she's a gift,
She's a treasure like no other,
She's someone that is truly wonderful.

Wherever you go, and whatever you do,
A Grandmother's love will always see you through,
A Grandmother is truly invaluable,
Indispensable and unforgettable.

I wouldn't want anyone but you,
And that's why I'm so grateful,
that life picked you for me.

~Author Unknown~

Betty was such a joyful and fun person, and I am so very blessed to have known her.  She brought such great laughter to our Bunco group!  My thoughts and prayers are with your family in this difficult time.  

May God's peace be with you.

Often in the news, we read about heroes; people who have done some heroic or brave act that has impacted other lives in a major way. Certainly these people are worthy of the credit and press they receive. However, there is another type of hero that usually never gets the credit they are due. My Grams, Betty J. VanDette, was certainly one of these unsung heroes to me and many others. I would like to give her the credit she deserves. Although these words can only be words, and a small token of my love and admiration, she will know what a hero she was and always will be remembered as.
I have so many wonderful memories of my Grandma. I can recall specific events and times that we shared together so clearly that I can begin to hear her voice singing the song “You Are My Sunshine”. I can remember what outfit and accessories she was wearing (that I wanted to have when I grew up), and I can even smell her perfume. I get tears in my eyes. More powerful, though, when I think of my Grams, is a feeling. It is so strong, yet I have difficulty describing it. I feel safe, loved, protected, invincible almost, and so special. I’m not sure what exactly it is/was that made me feel this way. Was it the countless hugs and kisses? Was it her passionate loyalty to her family? Was it the pride I knew she felt for all of us by the way she talked about us to others and displayed our pictures? Was it the smile on her face that lit up a room whenever she saw or mentioned us? Was it the strength and wisdom she modelled in her quiet (and sometimes not so quiet!) way? Perhaps a combination of all of these things is the power she had, and will continue to have. Her influence in my life is immeasurable. She truly is a hero because of the way she impacted my life – I am a better person because of her. As I get older, I am continually reminded and more aware of it. I see her so much in my own mother (it’s crazy!), especially as I get to know her as an adult. I see her in my aunts and uncle, in myself, and especially in the things I want for my own daughter. Just her affect on others, besides her many other beautiful qualities, makes her a hero worthy of endless accolades. 
I have had to say good bye to my Grandma many times throughout my life – it was never easy. This time will be harder than ever, I know, but I am trying to be strong. I am so sad that my baby Lilly will not get to feel her gentle touch or hear her precious voice. I can only hope that I do justice in helping her to know Grams through me. She leaves behind a legacy of powerful individuals who I know will be helping me. I find peace and comfort in the fact that Marc, Lilly and I were able to visit with her just a few short weeks ago. I told her during our last visit that more than anything, I will never forget how special she made me feel, and that I’d be eternally grateful to her. In her matter-of-fact way, she told me one last time that I was special and that I didn’t need to thank her. Grams – I love you, and it will be my goal to honour and thank you by always trying to make others feel the same way you made me feel. You have impacted my life in a major way; you are my hero.   Love, Jenny

My mom was the best!  She loved to love us.  She used to dress Cindy and I to look the same.  Something like this....

To my cousins Lisa, Cindy, Mark & Suzie,

How I think about the "good ole' days" when we Elkins kids' would all be together at your place on Larchmont.  Great memories for me.  

I am so sorry to hear about Aunt Betty's death. She's there now with her sisters...where she wanted to be.  

She and her two sisters are looking over all of us now with that great grin on their faces..happy as ever now!

Take care all of you and you're in my thoughts.

Cousin, Bea

Lisa & Roy, Cindy & Pat, Mark & Robin and Susie & Pat...My hearts goes out to you...know how hard it is to lose a parent.  Hope the wonderful memories of your mom replaces the great sadness you are feeling now.  I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.  I always smile when I remember Aunt Betty's laugh...it was always so wonderful to hear.

Often in the news, we read about heroes; people who have done some heroic or brave act that has impacted other lives in a major way. Certainly these people are worthy of the credit and press they receive. However, there is another type of hero that usually never gets the credit they are due. My Grams, Betty J. VanDette, was certainly one of these unsung heroes to me and many others. I would like to give her the credit she deserves. Although these words can only be words, and a small token of my love and admiration, she will know what a hero she was and always will be remembered as.

I have so many wonderful memories of my Grandma. I can recall specific events and times that we shared together so clearly that I can begin to hear her voice singing the song “You Are My Sunshine”. I can remember what outfit and accessories she was wearing (that I wanted to have when I grew up), and I can even smell her perfume. I get tears in my eyes. More powerful, though, when I think of my Grams, is a feeling. It is so strong, yet I have difficulty describing it. I feel safe, loved, protected, invincible almost, and so special. I’m not sure what exactly it is/was that made me feel this way. Was it the countless hugs and kisses? Was it her passionate loyalty to her family? Was it the pride I knew she felt for all of us by the way she talked about us to others and displayed our pictures? Was it the smile on her face that lit up a room whenever she saw or mentioned us? Was it the strength and wisdom she modelled in her quiet (and sometimes not so quiet!) way? Perhaps a combination of all of these things is the power she had, and will continue to have. Her influence in my life is immeasurable. She truly is a hero because of the way she impacted my life – I am a better person because of her. As I get older, I am continually reminded and more aware of it. I see her so much in my own mother (it’s crazy!), especially as I get to know her as an adult. I see her in my aunts and uncle, in myself, and especially in the things I want for my own daughter. Just her affect on others, besides her many other beautiful qualities, makes her a hero worthy of endless accolades. 

I have had to say good bye to my Grandma many times throughout my life – it was never easy. This time will be harder than ever, I know, but I am trying to be strong. I am so sad that my baby Lilly will not get to feel her gentle touch or hear her precious voice. I can only hope that I do justice in helping her to know Grams through me. She leaves behind a legacy of powerful individuals who I know will be helping me. I find peace and comfort in the fact that Marc, Lilly and I were able to visit with her just a few short weeks ago. I told her during our last visit that more than anything, I will never forget how special she made me feel, and that I’d be eternally grateful to her. In her matter-of-fact way, she told me one last time that I was special and that I didn’t need to thank her. Grams – I love you, and it will be my goal to honour and thank you by always trying to make others feel the same way you made me feel. You have impacted my life in a major way; you are my hero.

I will always remember many things about my "Aunt Betty".  I remember being the flower girl in her wedding, baby sitting for Lisa, Cindy, Mark, and Sue.  I remember her helping me out when my own children were little.  She was just that kind of person and will be missed.  I hope your took your lip stick with you, in heaven, as you always made an art of putting it on.  Dance in heaven Aunt Betty! Love, JoAnne and Dennis

Betty was the sweetest of neighbors and she will be missed.  Go with God dear friend.

I will always remember "Aunt Betty" as a caring person who had a positive outlook on life. I remember her visiting me in the hospital when I was very sick and getting me to laugh and smile. I hope her family and friends can find peace in her absence and be thankful for all the wonderful things she did to help others in life.

Betty, we loved you so much!  Can't wait to see you in Heaven!  Have fun till we get there!

With love from Amy (Suzanne's daughter) and Jack (her grandson)

Sue and Pat and all your family, you have our prayers at this time. Remember she is in a better place right now.  She was a very warm and bubbly person the few times we had the opportunity to be around her.  Just remember all the good times, that's something you'll always carry with you.  Love, Cindi & Bill TeKrony

Susan and family,
Your mother's warmth and caring personality will always be remembered. She was a very special person. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Praying for the peace and comfort of the Lord to be yours in this difficult time, but mostly that your memories will enable you to celebrate her and all she was. It is a wonderful blessing to have hope and know you will see her again.

Betty will be truly missed.  I had the pleasure of being her friend and sometimes, even worked with her.  I know she's in a better place.  I offer my deepest sympathy to Susan Brown and all of the family.  My thoughts and prayers are with you.

To the Family of Betty,

Warm and loving wishes are being sent to you from Alpena, Michigan. At Banner Realty your loved one was  remembered in our weekly staff meetings, prayer time.  Though many of us have never had the pleasure of meeting Betty, we feel we know her through the stories told by her kind and loving daughter, Lisa.  May God increase His ever abiding presence and love as you review the wonderful memories of Betty smiling. Together our hope is for that grand and wonderful day when every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord and each of us tells our story of being saved by His grace.

Love and Prayers,

Margie Haaxma

What a beautiful tribute to your mom.  I am sorry for your loss.  My sympathy to you and your family.

Lisa & Roy, Cindy & Pat, Mark & Robin and Sue & Pat,
My prayers are with all of you.  God will give you the peace and strength that you need.  I loved my Aunt Betty and my godmother.  She was so very special...especially her smile, her "lipstick" kisses and her way of truly caring.  I will forever cherish these memories!  I am so grateful and happy that I was able to see her just a short time ago.  God is so good!
Love and hugs to you all and to all of your families,
Jeanne

Mark-I am so sorry to hear about your mom. I am thinking about you and your family and if there is anything you need, please let me know. xoxo, Heather Merritt

                                     Memories Live Forever
It's hard to say goodbye to someone   that you love,
even though you know they are safe  with Jesus up above,
It doesn't make a difference if they are in their later years.
It only means more memories, to carry through the tears.
Don't let yourselves forget, we all have numbered days.
For reasons we do not know, God planned it this way.
Tears wash away the pain, but they can't remove the love.
The memories live forever safe in God's hands above.
So today we give thanks for the lives we chance to share.
No matter if they are short or long, 
GOD always will be there!!

Sending our LOVE from Brights Grove!!
Chris, April, Jarron, Amaree, Haley, & Joshua

Cindy and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers.

The Maintenance Services Group

I never had the priviledge of meeting your Mother, but am honoured to be a good friend to Betty's daughter, Cindy.  Hold tight to all these memories.  The pictures say it all!  My deepest sympathies, Lots of Love,

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Betty J. McFarland VanDette

31 octobre 1934 – 5 avril 2010

Ted Dickey West Funeral Home

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