Life has forever changed with the sudden passing of my beloved Mom, Bette on January 8, 2020.
Bette was predeceased by the love of her life, Frank Lowe in 2006, for whom she cared for through many years of illness. She was the youngest child of Allan and Jessie Maclaine, predeceased by her sisters, Sheila Maclaine, Winnifred Butcher and brother, Gordon Maclaine. Bette is survived by her daughter Andrea Nicholson, nieces, nephews, as well as, family in Scotland and many dear friends.
Bette was born in Edmonton, and moved with her family to their Vancouver home in Kits when she was 4 years old. She attended Bayview Elementary School, Kitsilano High, Fairview and The Vancouver Normal School, where she also worked prior to the opening of the UBC Faculty of Education. Bette was sent to Kitimat at the closure of the Normal School, to assist with the opening of Mount Elizabeth High. She returned to Vancouver when Andrea was born in 1962 and as a strong single Mom, raised her daughter while managing a full-time professional career to support her family of two. There was little, if any, support for a single parent in the 1960s and 70s but Bette did it, and as with everything, she did it very well!
Bette married Frank in 1977, and she and Andrea welcomed Frank into their lives. Although probably a difficult task in some ways, Frank quickly understood how things worked and fell right into place on the team.
Bette retired as Department Head of Business Education at Vancouver Community College, King Edward Campus. During her time at VCC, she covered King Ed, VCC Langara and The Vancouver Vocational Institute.
As one of the founding directors of the Oakridge Seniors Centre, Bette continued to be active at the centre. She also enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, music, her garden and was a beautiful knitter. Bette was an avid walker and loved drives along the beach and the annual road trip to Victoria for Symphony Splash.
Fiercely independent and strong, Mom was a loving, generous, talented woman with untouchable class. Mom taught me compassion, caring, loyalty, commitment and the importance of family and true friendship. It was an honour to be her daughter and to be loved as she loved me.
Many thanks to Dr. Michelle Lin and Dr. Saul Isserow for his kind care of Mom, always. Even through health challenges, Mom was always my Mom and I know she will always be with me. Until we meet again, Mom and as we said every evening… nite, nite.
As per Bette’s request, a gathering of friends to remember Bette will be held at a later date. If you so choose, donations in Bette’s name may be made to BC Guide Dogs, one of many charities that she supported.
Forever in my heart….Love you always.