It is with a sense of comfort and sadness that the family of Betty, otherwise known as Grandma, announces her passing while holding hands with Grandpa surrounded by her family. Grandma was born in Fort William on December 4, 1933, a few minutes after her twin brother Bob, and grew up in Pearson on her family farm.
When she was 17 Pat was asked to give this lovely girl a ride out to Pearson, she would be waiting on Simpson Street. Grandpa told us he fell in love with her on that drive and that Grandma would say the same. Grandpa always liked to joke that he picked Grandma up on Simpson Street. They were married on October 11, 1952, and have had a storybook romance for just shy of 72 years.
They built their home on Poleline Rd and stayed there for as long as they could. Anyone who knew them knew that their door was always open. You would always be welcomed with a cup of coffee or tea, Grandma's freshly baked bread, cookies, loaves, scones, or whatever she decided to bake that day. It was said that Grandma could have a 5-course meal ready and on the table before you had your shoes off. Once you sat down the crib board would just seem to appear.
Grandma lived her life with grace, patience, and care. Her granddaughters were convinced growing up that she was the real Mrs. Santa Claus and at Easter she would make Bread Bunnies with them, their friends, and then the great-grandchildren while listening to her records.She loved holidays with her family. She would always dress up and decorate for each one. She had many talents. She was exceptional at making mats on her loom and decorating cakes.
When Grandma wasn’t at home you would find her at camp on Prelate Lake. That was the place she loved the most. One of her favorite things was waking up early when the sun was just coming up, the lake was covered with mist and the loons were calling, she would get in her canoe and head out for a peaceful morning of fishing. She loved having her grandkids at camp. She taught them how to make their own lures, go for a midnight swim on the hot summer nights, take them for a picnic lunch down the road, blueberry picking, canoe rides, games, puzzles, and always singing songs. One of her favorite things was swinging on the swing with her grandchildren and great-grandchild singing them to sleep. The evenings would always be fishing until the bats hit our lines, we would end the day with a game of crib and a sauna.
Grandma is survived by her husband Patrick, her daughters Karen and Ellen, her grandchildren Robi (Trevor), Kalie (Todd), great-grandchildren Emma, Carson, Peyton, Ava, and Archer, her granddog Jax and sister-in-law Melba Flank. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, and close friends who are like family and loved her like their own Grandma.
The family would like to thank the staff of Hogarth Riverview Manor for the care and love they gave Grandma.
She was predeceased by her parents John and Thora, her in-laws Chester and Nora Edwards, her 12 siblings, brothers-in-law, and sisters-in-law, and her son Robert.
Whenever we hurt ourselves, Grandma would always say “It’s a long way from your heart.” This time it’s hurting us right in our heart.
Per Grandma’s wishes, there will be a private family celebration, and interment will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a donation to your charity of choice or a contribution to a food bank would be appreciated.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the WESTFORT CHAPEL, 420 West Gore Street at James.
Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com
