With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Elizabeth Nancy “Betty” Bates on November 15, 2025, in Cranbrook, BC. Betty was born in Vancouver on March 14, 1945, to Klaas and Emily Keller, the youngest of five children. As a young girl, Betty moved from Vancouver to her sister’s farm in Huxley, Alberta. It was there that Betty met her future husband, Sheldon. They married in Calgary in 1964, and their three children were born in Calgary. In 1976, their young family moved to Cranbrook to pursue new opportunities. In Cranbrook, Betty was a Controller for Cranbrook Dodge until her retirement.

Betty was an avid baker and craft maker. Everything was made with love, care and precision. She was known for her knitted slippers and Christmas baking. Betty also loved a good card game, and many nights were spent playing cards with friends and family. She was an avid bowler and was nicknamed “Boom Boom Betty” in her bowling days.

Betty will be lovingly remembered and survived by her husband of 61 years, Sheldon; her three children, Stan (Helen), Steve (Patti), and Leona (Peter); her grandchildren, Evan (Daniele), Graeme (Heather), Amy, Jayleen (Andre), Kayley (Andrew), and Emma (David); and her great-grandchildren, Abe and Beau.

Betty will be missed and remembered for the deep love she had for family and friends, and for the joy and comfort she brought to those around her.

The family extends their gratitude to the staff at the Joseph Creek Care Home and to Dr. Kari Nishi at Fisher Peak Family Practice for their exceptional care and compassion.

A Celebration of Betty’s life will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 1:00 pm at McPherson Funeral Home in Cranbrook, B.C. All who knew Betty are welcome to attend. The service will be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person, click the following link to view: https://www.hdezwebcast.com/show/elizabeth-bates-celebration-of-life

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