Tabetta (Betty) Johanna Lester

Tabetta (Betty) Johanna Lester (nee Johansen)

November 21, 1930 to April 20, 2019

Betty passed away at Grace General Hospital at the age of 88. She was predeceased by her loving husband Glen, son Rex, siblings and in-laws Nancy (Bill), Bobby (Marg), Hilda, Ellen (Walter), Bert, Vernon, and Marina. Betty is survived by her children Glenda (Rory), Hope (Alan), Glenn and Gaye (Brian) and her much loved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as her brother Cyril (Blanche), sister-in-law Helen, brother-in-law Lorne (Anne) and brother-in-law James Chapel as well as many cherished nieces and nephews.

Betty was born in Winnipeg and grew up in Norwood helping her Papa in the garden and baking with her Mama. Her childhood was taken up with school, play, horseback riding and canoeing down the Seine with her friends Marion and Nora. After High School she worked as a receptionist and executive secretary. It was during this time while Betty was on holiday at Victoria Beach that she met Glen Lester. They were married in 1954 and had five children whom they cherished.

Betty and Glen lived in Victoria Beach working side by side building their fur farm, raising their children and tending their vegetable garden and flowers. Betty spent her life loving and caring for her family. Her children all have fond memories of bread baking Saturdays, roast beef Sundays, Christmas baking, blueberry pies, picnics on Elk Island, blanching garden beans, and summer evenings talking in the verandah. No matter how busy she was she had time to teach, encourage, share and listen. Mom was patient, loving, kind, and generous, a quiet and at times shy woman, with a tender smile and a wonderful sense of humour. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Her family wishes to acknowledge the loving, caring and compassionate care provided by the staff at Brightwater Senior Living. A private graveside memorial celebrating her life was held on April 24, 2019 per Mom’s specific wishes. Donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in her memory are gratefully accepted.

Condolences may be left on her tribute wall at www.gilbartfuneralhome.com

Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care or arrangements.

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