Bette passed away very peacefully on Sunday, August 18, 2019 in Calgary at the age of 90. She was delighted and surprised to have been able to celebrate her 90th with family and friends. Bette was born on October 22, 1928 in Verdun, Quebec and the Montreal area was truly her home.
Bette is lovingly remembered by her daughter Deb (Jaan), son Dean (Donna), daughter-in-law Lucy and her grandchildren Jordan, Jason, Neal, Ethan, Emma, Erik and Evan. She is also survived by her much-loved niece Elaine, nephew Rick and many precious friends across the country and the world. She was sadly predeceased by her son Derek and by her ex-husband Nelson.
Bette’s fierce determination and high intelligence allowed her to deal with the many challenges she faced as a single parent raising 3 young children while working as a nurse. Her health issues following a car accident caused by a drunk driver were myriad and her ability to continue to forge a meaningful, productive life was an inspiration.
Shortly after her move to Calgary in 1996, Bette penned this note to share after her death. Missing her “family” in Montreal she wrote:
“To all my family and friends back home. I want to express my deep gratitude for being a continued important part of my life here in Calgary. Your caring and kindness mean the world to me. I would never have adjusted here without knowing I still had my “family” back home. It has been great watching my grandchildren grow to become wonderful young people. I must be one of the most blessed people to pass through this life. I had 3 children, of whom I am so proud and a career with the babies and incredible caregivers. Nobody could possibly love what they did more than me. Families of old friends and families of old preemies have stayed close. Thank you for being part of my life. Please don’t feel sad, be glad we had the time we did. I am. Enjoy your lives and don’t ever lose your loving spirits. If you choose to remember me, please be an advocate for a needy child or even a neglected dog. My ashes are travelling to Cape Breton.
Follow your hearts. Do your best at whatever you do. That’s all I did and I feel successful. Thank you for the gift of your friendship. A la prochaine!
Much love Mrs. A.”
After 23 years in Calgary, Bette had a second home and special friends to share life with. Her highly respected career as a neonatal head nurse at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Montreal was her pride and she was able to travel in May 2018 to her 68 year class reunion from the Montreal General Hospital!
For the last few months, Bette‘s home was Bethany Riverview in Calgary. Our heartfelt appreciation to the deeply caring and professional staff who provided excellent care. Her time at Bethany was filled with compassion and respect – particularly during her last hours - and it meant the world.
Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life at Foster’s Garden Chapel, 3220 – 4 Street N.W., Calgary on Sunday, September 22, 2019 at 2:00 p.m..
No flowers please. As per Bette’s wishes, donations to an organization of your choice supporting children or dogs would be appreciated.
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