A single post today as a good friend’s mother, the lady I knew as Bronte, has passed away and, as she was a great fan of the web, I have been asked to create her Book of Condolences here.
July 22, 1932-July 28, 2006
Bette died at home with dignity, as was her wish, after a four-month illness. Predeceased by her father, Earl George, mother Margaret McKirdy (née Wilson), brother Norman and infant son David. Loyal friend and neighbour, ardent feminist, environmentalist, proud employee of P&G, CBC listener and TTC patron who enjoyed the poetry of Robert Burns, military history and genealogy, but her passion was raising her children: Trevor (Dawn Zubrisky) and Laura (Wally Archibald) and cherishing her grandchildren: Jacob, Hayley, Samuel, Graham and Simon who will miss her many acts performed “with love”. She will be deeply missed by caring siblings: Marion (the late William Duffy), Irene (Jack Hammond), Bruce (Joan), Don (Shirley), Bill and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Peter has lost the greater part of his life with the passing of his devoted wife of 48 years.
Everyone who knew “Bronte” knows that her Legacy is Love. Rest in Peace.
Internment will take place at St. James Cemetery in Toronto where Bette will be reunited with David. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice. “Crossing the Bar” by Alfred, Lord Tennyson was one of her favorite poems and will be read as part of the service.
Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;For through from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crossed the bar.
Please leave your thoughts and recollections for the family by clicking on the word “reply” above, entering your message and then clicking on the word “post”. Please email me at the email address genx40@gmail.com if that is easier or you have any digital photos you wish to share. I can add them to the comments on your behalf. This page will continue on the Internet as long as the family requests so that your comments can be shared with others who knew Bronte.