ELIZABETH ROSE (BETTY) RANDLE

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ELIZABETH ROSE (BETTY) RANDLE Affectionately known as Nana - passed away quietly on February 7, 2011 at Concordia Hospital in Winnipeg, receiving Palliative Care. Born May 18, 1920 in Regina, she was predeceased by her husband Edwin, daughter Susan, sisters Mary and Lucretia, and brother Billy. She is survived by her son Graham, daughter-in-law Barbara, nieces Betty Jean and Marilyn, nephews Jimmy, Robert and Tom, grandchildren Jamie, Meghan and Erin, and great-grandchildren Liam, Sarah, Matthew, Emma and Rory. Growing up in Regina during the depression and dirty thirties she graduated from Scott Collegiate, held several office positions, and during the Second World War worked in the Regina War Plant (artillery and munitions) where she met her husband, Ed. From Regina they moved to Prince Albert, and eventually to Pine Falls where they raised their young family. Nana was active in the Woman's Auxiliary of the Pine Falls Hospital as well as other local organizations, and participated in bowling and curling. In 1955 she and Ed (with other Pine Falls business partners) acquired the property now known as Wanasing Beach, near Victoria Beach. They became residents there when Ed retired from Abitibi at age 65. Nana was then 53 years old. As one of the original residents of Wanasing Beach, Nana became a founding member of the Victoria Beach Senior's Scene organization, spent many years knitting for the Cheer Board, and visiting or being visited by friends. In later years, following Ed's demise, she lived alone, but a day seldom went by without contact from local friends. She participated in regular meetings of the Tehani Book Club, hosted by her closest friend, Diana Pennington. Also, her son and daughter-in-law were regular visitors. Despite her gentle demeanor, she often referred to herself as a tough old broad . Her longevity and resilience in coping with adversity proved that beyond doubt. She was well-loved by all who knew her, and will be sorely missed. To quote her book club friends, Joy and Joey: Although diminutive in stature, Betty had the heart and spirit of a lion. She was a stalwart pioneer of Victoria Beach and a dear and faithful friend of many. She lived a full life, now may she rest. A private cremation has taken place. An announcement will follow regarding a Memorial Service, planned to be held in June at Victoria Beach. In Nana's memory, a donation can be made in her name to Eastern Beaches Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 51, Victoria Beach, MB R0E 2C0.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 12, 2011