Betty May Downie passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 21, 2019 in Calgary, Alberta at the age of 96 years.
Betty was born on February 4, 1923 in New Cambria, Kansas, USA. Betty immigrated to Canada with her parents, two brothers and one sister in 1924, homesteading near Rockyford, Alberta. She attended school in Nightingale and Calgary Normal School, graduating as a teacher. She taught in Brushy Lake where she met Maurice at a community dance; they were married in 1946. They lived in Tudor before moving to Carstairs in 1950. Maurice was a grain buyer, initially at Wessex and then transferred to Carstairs in 1960. Betty was a substitute teacher and worked at Beckner’s Men’s Wear, all the while raising a young family. She was actively involved in the community with UCW, I.O.D.E and Eastern Star. They moved to Calgary in 1972.
Betty is lovingly remembered by her daughter Margaret (Bob); granddaughters Larissa (Jeff) of Calgary, Christie (Kevin); great-granddaughter Shae and great-grandson Rylan of Swift Current; her son Douglas (Donna), grandson Curtis (Amanda), great-grandson Jeremy, great- granddaughter Talia of Winnipeg; grandson Jeffrey (Lyndsi), great-grandsons Nixson and Zachary of Edmonton; grandson Kyle (Gina) great-granddaughters Ariana and Lilah of Winnipeg. Betty was predeceased by her husband, Maurice; parents Curtis and Ethel; brothers Max and Emeral; and sister Rosalea.
If friends so desire memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the charity of their choice. A Celebration of Betty’s life will be announced at a later date.Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to the family, via the website: www.fostersgardenchapel.ca
