Bettie Laburta Bell

Born March 30, 1926 in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Bettie Laburta Bell passed away peacefully with family present on January 2, 2013. She is lovingly survived by her children, Dr. Gerald (Paula) Bell of Boise, Idaho; George (Paula) Bell of Calgary; Deborah Reed (Ricky) of Calgary; Ricky (Laurel ) Bell of Calgary; her grandchildren Monica of Boise, Idaho; Morgan of Chicago, Illinois; Brent, Kyle, Sydney, Hayden, and Madyson of Calgary; great grandchildren Calvin, Andrew, Oscar, and one on the way; sister Gertrude Clattenberg, brothers Manuel, Earl Jr., and Ronald; niece Lucy Nickerson and nephew Malcom Nickerson & family. She was predeceased by her parents Mary and Earl Leek, sisters, brothers, nieces and nephews.

Recently Bettie lost the love of her life of 63 years. Basil Lawrence Bell in June, 2012. Bettie met Basil whom she later married in Fredericton. Basil, who was in the Canadian Armed Forces was posted to many bases. Bettie always worked in jobs that helped and cared for people and as Basil worked up in the ranks of the Army, Bettie’s reputation for going the extra mile in her job followed her from base to base with each of the family’s postings.

She retired in Calgary after working many years for Carewest Sarcee Auxillary Hospital. Bettie Laburta Bell was an individual that loved food, folks, and fun. She loved music and dance, parties and people. If you came by the house you would be treated to a cup of tea or beverage of your choice with an hors d’oeuvres tray that would be put together in a creative and fancy manner. At the birthday parties, holiday parties, or any of the special gatherings, Bettie would be checking to ensure each and every one got enough to eat and was having a good time. She was the life of the party and just seemed to find fun and excitement with every day on earth.

This is a person that would never leave the house without makeup, jewelry, and her hair just so. The family will continue to carry on with the fishing trips to Little Bow that she so loved and looked forward to with Basil and family. Bettie was the matriarch of the Bell family. She set an example for all who knew her to love and respect all people. The passion and purpose of each and every day on earth was shown in her actions and in the genuine way she went about her day.

The family would like to thank the C 3 program's staff for working so closely with Bettie and the family. A special thank you to the Southwood Care Centre, Parkland Annex’s staff. You made the transition easier for all of us.

A Memorial Service will be held at Glamorgan Church of God, 4715 – 45 Street SW, Calgary on Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 1:00 p.m.