Normand Albert Bettis
August 10, 1931-October 31, 2012
Normand Albert Bettis passed away October 31, 2012 at Campbell River General Hospital after a lengthy battle with cancer.
He was predeceased by parents, Albert and Florence Bettis, brother Charlie Bettis and son Terry Bettis. Normand leaves behind his wife of 59 years, Betty Bettis, son Edward Bettis and daughter Susan Kowbel. He also leaves behind four grandchildren, Dwayne Ludlow, Bobby Ludlow, Carley Bettis, Cassidy Bettis, seven great grandchildren, four nephews and two nieces. He also leaves behind his two furry companions, Suzy and Timmy.
Normand was born in Vancouver and at the age of six moved with his family to Wellbore Channel. He then moved to Blind Channel where he went to school. In his younger years he went hand logging, booming and fishing. He married Betty Chadwick July 4th, 1953. They continued to live up the coast where he went commercial fishing. In 1961 they moved to Quadra Island where they lived for forty years and raised their children. In 2001 they decided to move to Campbell River to be closer to their children and their grandchildren.
After retirement Normand enjoyed all of his new found hobbies. He and his wife spent many weeks camping and fishing at Loveland Bay. To his family’s surprise he took up gardening of which they received the benefits of the vegetables and flowers. He also started raising mason bees for his garden and friends. Due to his fine carpentry skills family members received bowls and tables handmade by Normand. He also built a scale model of his final fishing boat the Canadian Lady. Normand spent many Fridays at Banners having lunch with his two friends Lawrence and Gerry.
The family wishes to thank the 3rd floor nurses for all the special care and attention given to Normand in his final days. We also would like to thank Dr. de Bruin, Dr. Kask, the Cancer clinic and the ambulance service for all of their support and care. Also, we would like to thank all of the friends who were there for Normand and his family.
A celebration of his life will be held November 8, 2012 1:00 p.m. at the Elk Falls Cremation and Reception Centre. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the SPCA or the Cancer society.