BETTY MARY LOUISE GILBERT (COX)

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BETTY MARY LOUISE GILBERT (nee COX) It is with deep sadness the family announces the passing of Betty Gilbert on September 14, 2013 following a graceful and courageous battle with cancer. She will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by her devoted husband of 63 years, Jack, her three children, Rick Gilbert (Joanne), Margot Bowes (Len) and Cathy Therrien (Paul), her sister Lynn Hovey (Dick), grandchildren Bryon, Kendra, Melissa and Kevin, great-grandchild, Caitlyn, nieces, nephews and many friends. Betty was born in Winnipeg, October 2, 1926. She grew up on McMillan and later moved to Stradbrook where she met Jack, "the boy next door." They married in 1950 and raised their three children in River Heights. In later years, she enjoyed her homes on the Assiniboine River in St. James, fueling her love of nature and the outdoors. For the last eight years, Betty and Jack lived at Sterling House where they made many new friends. She enjoyed a busy social life with her many close friends there. Before her children were born, Betty worked for Great West Life. She enjoyed her role as a lecturer for Weight Watchers where she was an inspiration to so many who attended her classes. In this capacity, she had great fun as a regular guest on a CTV cooking show, sharing healthy recipes and her culinary expertise. For many years, Betty volunteered her time with the McKinnon Guild, Children's Hospital Foundation. She spent many hours at the Nearly New Shop, Children's Hospital book fairs and in her role as President of this charity. Betty's many interests included gourmet cooking, fishing, bird-watching, politics, playing cards, word games and travelling. She enjoyed playing the piano and drums, was a huge CFL and NFL football fan and had a great love of gardening. Mom participated in many flower shows and competitions that often won her prize ribbons. Summers at Victoria Beach and camping trips with her family were among her greatest joys. Betty's true passion in life was her family. She took great pride in her children and was devoted to her grandchildren. We were blessed with the gifts of her unconditional love, support and friendship which will continue to nurture us all for many years to come. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society: 193 Sherbrook Street Winnipeg, MB R3C 2B7, Multiple Sclerosis Society: Suite 100-1465 Buffalo Place Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 1L8 or a charity of your choice. A celebration of Betty's life will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 20 at Thomson "In the Park," 1291 McGillivray Blvd, Winnipeg MB. R3T 5Y4. THOMSON "IN THE PARK" 204-925-1120 Condolences may be sent to www.thomsoninthepark.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 18, 2013