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 ELIZABETH HOWELL 1926 - 2009 Elizabeth Howell died peacefully at the Dawson Creek & District Hospital on April 2, 2009 after a brief illness. More commonly known as Betty by friends and family she was the seventh child born to William and Elizabeth Bensley on September 18, 1926 in Newcastle, England. Betty was a very bright student and had economic times been in her favour she undoubtedly would have pursued more education after the age of 14. Her first job was with a Chemist, Mr. Dodd, and she worked long hard hours for little pay. The opportunity came up when she was 17 to enter the WRENS and as she was an incredible cook being able to fix up a meal with minimal ingredients she was up for the task of preparing food for hundreds. While preparing liver for a meal at the Mess Hall she met a cook by the name of George (Sid) Howell. He asked her out and after a brief courtship they married February 12, 1949. Their first son, Peter, was born in 1950 and Richard followed in 1952. Sid, Betty and family moved to Malta where Sid continued to serve for the British Navy as a cook. Unfortunately Richard became gravely ill and died in 1953. A terrible loss for the family and Sid was able to break his Naval Contract and return then with family back to England. In 1955 their daughter, Janet, was born and the family was complete. In 1956 Sid, Betty and children immigrated to Canada living in various communities and in 1967 they moved from Elliot Lake, Ontario to settle in Dawson Creek. Betty became very involved with St. Mark's Anglican Church and she was a dedicated hard working parishioner and remained so until health issues forced her to pull back. Betty was a proud Grandma to Sasha, Nathan, Steven, Robert and Sarah and how she loved those children. She spent much time babysitting and was very involved in their growing years. A beautiful great granddaughter, Julia Ayden, was born to Sasha and Warren on April 18, 2008 and when Betty would see Julia her eyes would light up and she'd always say, "What a bonny lass" Betty wasn't afraid to speak her mind or send correspondence to politicians or causes that she felt needed a "shakening up" Betty was proud to be British and frowned on any negativity aimed at the Royal family. Betty was a very kind woman and gave generously to local and international causes. You would never leave her home without a care package and that generosity continued to the time of her passing. In 2005 Betty was diagnosed with Alzheimers Disease and she remained at home until August 15, 2008 and was then placed into care at the Peace River Haven. Through her time at the Haven she made many friends and was loved by all staff members. Everything done or given to Betty was always recognized by Betty commenting how "lovely" it was. She will be greatly missed by Yves and John from the Haven. Betty was predeceased by her parents, four brothers, two sisters and her son, Richard. Betty is survived by her loving husband of 60 years Sid, son Peter and his children Sasha (Warren), Steven, Sarah (Jared), great granddaughter, Julia, daughter Janet (Brian) and her children Nathan (Serena), Robert (Melanie) and daughter-in-law, Karen. It was Betty's request that no funeral service be held and that she be cremated. Donations in memory of Betty may be made to the Peace River Haven Foundation, Box 188, Pouce Coupe, B.C. V0C 2C0. |
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Dawson Creek: (250)
782-2577 Serving Fort St. John |
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