BETTY HAVENS C.M., D.LITT.

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

BETTY HAVENS C.M., D.LITT. We are deeply saddened to announce Betty's death in Winnipeg on March 1, 2005. Friends, colleagues and the Canadian and International gerontology community mourn the loss of a trusted ally, colleague, mentor, teacher, policy maker and accomplished scholar. During her career with the Manitoba Provincial Government, Betty's vision was instrumental in the establishment of the Manitoba Home Care, Pharmacare and Support Services to Seniors Programmes and in extending provincially insured services to include personal care homes. She initiated and has maintained the Aging in Manitoba (AIM) longitudinal study which 30 years later continues to be a valued resource for researchers worldwide. As a Professor and Senior Scholar in the department of Community Health Sciences at the University of Manitoba, Betty acted as a mentor and advisor to future researchers in the field of aging while also contributing her vast knowledge and expertise to seniors, policy makers and colleagues. Her formidable talents were also shared with the Girl Guides of Canada and the University Women's Club of Manitoba. As a pioneer in the study of aging, Betty was the recipient of many honours recognizing her immeasurable contributions, the most recent being the Order of Canada on February 18, 2005. Among other numerous distinctions were the Canadian Health Services Research Foundation Award, the Manitoba Science and Technology Certificate of Achievement, the Commemorative Medal for the Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II awarded by the Canadian Association on Gerontology, and the YWCA Professional Woman of the Year Award. Her death leaves a huge void in the gerontological community and in the lives of many valued friends. Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Betty's life will be held on Wednesday, March 16, at 4:00 p.m. at St. John's College, 92 Dysart Rd., University of Manitoba. In lieu of flowers, contributions to an award to be established in her name would be greatly appreciated and may be sent to The Canadian Association on Gerontology (CAG), 329 March Rd., Suite 232, Box 11, Ottawa, ON K2K 2E1. Arrangements entrusted to: VOYAGE FUNERAL HOME CREMATORIUM 1531 Pembina Hwy. 284-7500

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 05, 2005