Obituary of Darlene Betteley

<h1>Darlene Betteley</h1> February 23, 1935 – April 19, 2008 Following a brief battle with leukemia, Darlene received her final wish of a gentle passing surrounded by the comforts of the home she loved, with the window open and the robins singing. She leaves behind her husband, Bob Betteley of Kitchener; daughters Lynda Hallett (John) of Caledon; Cathy Caron (Blair) of Kitchener and the lights of her life, grandsons Josh and Brendan Caron. Born to Wilfred and Doris Warner in 1935, Darlene was one of six kids: sisters Betty Fry (Ivan), Gloria Ten Eyck (Fred), Helen Arnold (Ross) and brothers Doug Warner (Lorraine) and Grant Warner (Bonny). Darlene was predeceased by her parents, her brother Grant, and brother-in-law Ross. First married at the ripe old age of 19, she soon took on the title of “Lynda’s Mom”, and added “Cathy’s Mom” to her job description a few years later. She became Bob’s wife and partner on April 13, 1984. In 1987, Darlene held her first grandson, Josh. In 1990, Brendan came along and Gramma Darlene (aka “Dwanny”) had one more buddy to build snowmen and play baseball with. Any friend of Josh and Brendan’s was a grandchild to Darlene. There was rarely a family gathering that didn’t include two or three extra kids. Throughout her life, she wove a vivid tapestry of dear friends. Holidays and visits just won’t be the same without her wonderful pies and plates of cookies. For more than 20 years, she was a strong advocate and cheerleader for breast cancer survivors, and was always glad to share her story if it would help someone else. Darlene’s family and friends are invited to share memories of her at the Erb &amp; Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo, on Friday, April 25, 2008 beginning at 10 a.m. A memorial service and reception will follow at 11 a.m., with Rev. W. Phil Heinze officiating. At Darlene’s request, cremation has taken place. Monetary donations in her memory should be directed to the Grand River Regional Cancer Centre. “Giving the gift of life” to Canadian Blood Services would also be a wonderful way to honour her. Many heartfelt thanks to Drs. Tam, Kumalo, Bouttell, Kontakos and all of the other “cancer care angels” who recognized Darlene’s spirit, and walked with her along the path of peace and dignity. What I do today is important, Because I am paying a day of my life for it. What I accomplish must be worthwhile because the price is high.”