MARY ELIZABETH (BETTE) MCPHILLIPS (LAIDLAW)

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MARY ELIZABETH (BETTE) MCPHILLIPS (nee LAIDLAW) Peacefully, after a lengthy illness, Bette passed away on March 9, 2006. She was predeceased by her husband, Dennis, on May 5, 1996. Bette was born in Brandon, MB on August 3, 1921. Moving to Winnipeg with her parents, she attended Balmoral Hall, University of Winnipeg and Success Business College. As a teenager, she worked as a caddy on the golf course at Minaki Lodge, and carried a life long love of the outdoors. She fondly spoke of horseback riding in her younger years, keeping her horse at a friend's dairy farm, and always had a collection of western boots and colourful hats. She and Dennis spent many memorable summers at their trailer on Netley Creek, and fishing was a keen pastime all her life. Her last employment before retirement reflected this, in 13 years at the Winnipeg offices of Great Slave Lake Lodge Ltd. Bette enjoyed her home and her beloved dog Topaz. She entertained with flair, and loved a good story. She was always ready for a trip, as Dennis was a long-time employee of Northwest Airlines, and she had an accessorized and impeccable outfit for any occasion. She was an accomplished hostess, and many people were welcomed into her home. She was always interested in the lives of everyone around her, drawing friends with her unique personality. She will be remembered and sadly missed by her dear friend and companion, O.H. Rusty Murray of Washington Island, WI, and by friends, Maury and Bill, Don, Milo, Edie, and Barb and Denis. Thanks also to her neighbours, especially Maureen and Paul, and to Nomie and Jack for taking good care of the dear little soul , Topaz. Bette put on a good face until the end. She had such good times in recent years at Washington Island, and made many friends there. Thank you to all her friends for your loyalty during her difficult time, and to Rusty for unfailing concern. Appreciation is expressed to both the staff of St. Boniface Hospital, 3B, and WRHA Home Care for compassionate support in easing her way. At Bette's request, there will be no funeral, and cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire donations can be made to CancerCare Manitoba, Donations, 675 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, R3E 0V9 NEIL BARDAL INC. 949-2200

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 11, 2006