Saturday, September 4, 2021
I got to know Betty Lou through her son Grant and his wife, Susanne in Ottawa during one of her visits there in the mid-1980s. I didn't know her well but was always struck by her vivacious and outgoing personality. In the summer of 2002, I biked in B.C., where I grew up, and across the Prairies to Winnipeg. Betty Lou and her handsome husband, Frank, who reminded me of Charlton Heston, invited me to stay with them in Saskatoon when I got to their neck of the woods. They arranged to meet me in a village just outside of Saskatoon, and when Betty Lou spotted me and my bike, she rushed toward me, giving me a big warm joyous, hug. One afternoon she showed me around town, during which we ended up at Value Village, where we earnestly shopped for bargains. I had never heard of this store, but marvelled at Betty Lou's expertise shopping there; this lead to me purchasing a fine Ralph Lauren woolen jacket. One evening we visited her former farm house, and I thought how lovely for her and Frank to have enjoyed such a lovely view over Saskatoon at night, its city lights twinkling away, just like Betty Lou's eyes twinkled.
I am sure many will miss this vital and sparkling person. It was a treat knowing you, Betty Lou, and I send my sincere sympathy to Grant, Susanne and the boys and to other members of her family.
