Elizabeth (Betty) Larke (nee Longney)
1915 – 2015
Peacefully on Sunday October 18, 2015 at Tabor Home in Morden, Betty went to her heavenly home, just six days short of her 100th birthday.
Mom was born at Freesmason’s Hospital in Morden on October 24, 1915. Her early days were spent on the family farm in Thornhill, MB. She often spoke of how she enjoyed that life, including the chores. After mom finished school, she attended the Marvel Hairdressing School in Winnipeg and opened her own shop in Morden in 1937. On June 1, 1943, she married Bill Larke and a busy life followed. Mom enjoyed a full, active life and loved the many hours spent volunteering. She was honoured to receive the Morden Kinsman Community Service Award in 1994 in recognition of her volunteer service in Morden. She was especially dedicated to the Legion Ladies Auxiliary since 1944, receiving her life membership in 1982, Jubilee Medal/Meritorious Award in 1985 and Palm Leaf Award in 1998. As well, she spent many hours helping at the Thrift Store, Tabor Home, ladies church groups at the United Church and St. Thomas Anglican Church. She was happiest when she was serving others. Mom enjoyed her many activities over the years at the Friendship Centre, Tuesday ladies lunch group, her “Domino” friends. Her hands were always busy making meals, baking, doing knitting and needlework. She enjoyed curling into her 70’s and still enjoyed watching a curling game on TV. Throughout her life, mom had a strong faith in God and found comfort from her prayer breakfast fellowship and Bible study groups especially after dad passed away. Upon moving to Homestead South, she continued to host Tuesday evening Bible study which gave her peace and purpose in life.
Mom was predeceased in 1994 by her husband of 50 years, Bill, her sister, Edith Turner in 2009, brother, Leonard Longney in WWll at the age of 22 and her parents, William and Sarah Longney. She will be sadly missed by her daughter, Joan (Ed) Sawatzky of Winnipeg, son, Jim (Heather) of North Delta, BC, grandchildren, Todd, Trevor (Leili), Kristen, Matthew, Kevin and great grandson, Evan as well as nieces, nephews and in-laws.
Funeral service at 2:00 p.m. on Friday October 23, 2015 at St. Thomas Anglican Church 131 8th St. in Morden with interment at Hillside Cemetery.
Thank you to the many people who have helped mom over the past several years. Special thanks to Dr. Bob Menzies, and more recently the caring staff at Tabor Home. If friends so desire, donations may be made in Betty’s memory to the Tabor Home Memorial Fund.
“May the winds of love blow softly, and whisper so you can hear.
We will always love and miss you, and wish that you were here.
For all that life has given us, and all that’s left to do,
We’ll know no greater treasure than the days we had with you.”
Wiebe Funeral Chapel, Morden
In care of arrangements,
wiebefuneralhomes.com