Feb 21, 1923 - Jan 8, 2018
Betty was the first born daughter of William Irwin (Superintendent of Transportation for CNR) and Levina Jane Munro (Nurse). Betty was followed by Bill, Peggy (Wakeling) and Grace (Vadeboncoeur). Edmonton, Winnipeg and Saskatoon were home.
Betty came to Francois Lake to visit the Neave Family (Hal and Agnes) and met the love of her life, Charlie. They were wed in Winnipeg, July 23rd, 1949 at the Munro home and returned to Burns Lake to start their new life together. They both had a love of the area and always had a special connection to Francois Lake.
Betty started her teaching career in 1949 with a passion that never faded. EJane, Bill and Louise arrived on the scene and a happy family unit was created. There was a lot of laughter, music, magical storytelling and love, a life-long gift that will always be cherished by the family.
Betty retired and continued to teach as a teacher on call until December 1999 (Yes, fifty years!). Betty's heart and soul went into her teaching. Every student was special which was evident when she was asked if she ever taught anyone important and quickly responded with "Of course I did. Every one of my students were important."
Betty moved to Mission in 2010 where she enjoyed living independently with a good support system. When she was no longer able to continue living at Cedarbrooke Chateau she moved to Menno Home in Abbotsford. Betty always lit up when she had company, especially children. Always the gracious hostess, she would want to serve tea and cookies.
Betty remained at Menno home until she slipped away on January 8th, 2017 with family at her side.
Betty is survived by her children, Jane Dean (John), Bill (Madeline) and Louise Miller (Otto). Grandchildren, Jocelyn Guise (Ian), Sarah Alexander (Will), Laura Camozzi (Dan), Ryan Beatty (Nicole), Mike Miller (Bobbi), Jonathon Miller (Karlyn). Great Grandchildren, Gavyn, Cameron, Evan, Chloe, Erik, Liam, Jackson, Ariel, Michael and Jacob. Betty's grandson Edward followed her on March 9, 2017.
Betty's bright, indomitable light will remain within us.
There will be a Celebration of Life tea at the Francois Lake Hall on March 31st 1:30 - 3:30.
Please come for tea and bring your recollections.