In Memory Of

Share:

This obituary is protected by copyright by Flinn Funeral Services Ltd, proudly serving West Central Alberta, Canada. All rights reserved.

Elizabeth "Betty" Lottie Anna Semple

Oct 28, 1932 - Apr 26, 2021

Service

  A celebration of life for Betty will be held at a later date when Covid restrictions have passed, and it is safe to gather friends and family in remembrance.
Cremation entrusted to Rocky Mountain Crematorium and has taken place followed by a private family graveside inurnment at the Pine Grove Cemetery.
Thanks to Flinn Funeral services, Rocky Funeral Home for making arrangements.

Notice

Thank you to Dr. Peens and the Pharmacy team at Alpine Drug Mart.We would like to thank Rocky Home Care for their exceptional palliative support and assistance. Special thank you to Debbie, Jillian and a team of amazing home support workers. Your guidance and gentle ways helped us immeasurably. Thank you to the Medical Equipment Lending Society for providing specialized equipment during mom’s care journey. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in mom’s name to either of these organizations

Obituary

Betty Semple

Elizabeth Lottie Anna Semple passed away peacefully April 26, 2021 after a brief battle with esophageal cancer. We were grateful to have the loving support of our families so that we could come from across Canada to care for mom. She will be missed by all her children and grandchildren- Kathy (Ross; Duncan (Mel), Emily), David (Rhonda; Rebecca, Gavin, Miller), Glen (Lisa; Joseph (Janet), Kathleen (Sam)) and Janet Shultis (Paul; Beth (Aaron) great grandchild Elliot, James and David Shultis) She is also survived by sisters Jean Linton and Roberta (Glen) Mills and brother Jack Cumming (Jeannette).

Betty Cumming was born in Regina, Saskatchewan to Thomas Beattie Cumming and Lillian Maude McKenzie on October 28, 1932. Her early years were spent homesteading in Saskatchewan. Tragically, her mom died in 1939 leaving her father with 3 children to care for during the depression. Her father remarried in 1941 to Elva Jesse Jackson, who became mother to Jack (John Roswell Cumming) in 1947. Elva was the loving grandmother we remember growing up. Betty’s youth was spent moving frequently. Mom remembered attending 12 schools in 12 years. Perhaps these early experiences resulted in the resilience and strong work ethic that was so much a part of who she was.

Betty was always a caregiver from a young age. She graduated from high school in Rimbey, Alberta and chose to enter nurses training at the Edmonton General Hospital. Betty graduated in May 1954 and took a nursing position at the new Presbyterian Hospital in Rocky Mountain House at the urging of her grandfather John Cumming who was here as a local lumber agent. Betty cherished her nursing friends and enjoyed frequent get-togethers with the local nurses group and her annual Nursing Reunions. Although her nursing career was short she continued to use those skills throughout her life. Betty volunteered as camp nurse at a number of Rocky Elementary Goldeye Lake Grade 6 field trips. Betty took pride in caring for others. She lovingly cared for our dad as he journeyed through Alzheimer’s disease until his death in May 25, 2005. She also helped care for numerous friends as they aged. We are proud to follow her template for how to treat others with compassion, loving kindness and acceptance.

The first Sunday after stepping off the Greyhound bus in Rocky Mountain House, Betty attended the Memorial Presbyterian Church. It was there she met the love of her life, Dr. Joseph Miller Semple, who had arrived as a new dentist in 1953. Mom recalls Dr. and Mrs. Hein encouraging Joe to give her rides home from church and we can forever be grateful for their matchmaking skills. Betty and Joe were married August 16,1956 and were inseparable for 49 years. Together they built a loving home and raised their 4 children. For us, there could have been no better parents, grandparents, friends or role models. We are grateful and richer for the example they set.

The Memorial Presbyterian Church became their second home and church family. Betty worked tirelessly within the church, starting as a CGIT leader, Sunday school teacher, member of the session, treasurer, Elder and finally as church archivist, compiling a centennial book on the history of the Memorial Presbyterian Church in Rocky Mountain House. She was so grateful for all the members of her church family and community who have shown such kindness, friendship, and support over the years. Mom’s quiet faith guided everything she did.

We are thankful for our friend Darlene Werbecky for the care and support she gave to our mom for the past 17 years.
Thank you to Dr. Peens and the Pharmacy team at Alpine Drug Mart.
We would like to especially thank Rocky Home Care for their exceptional palliative support and assistance. Special thank you to Debbie, Jillian and a team of amazing home support workers. Your guidance and gentle ways helped us immeasurably. Thank you to the staff at the Medical Equipment Lending Society for providing specialized equipment during mom’s care journey.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in mom’s name to either of these organizations or to the local charity of your choice.
A celebration of life for Betty will be held at a later date when Covid restrictions have passed, and it is safe to gather friends and family in remembrance.
Cremation entrusted to Rocky Mountain Crematorium and has taken place followed by a private family graveside inurnment at the Pine Grove Cemetery.
Thanks to Flinn Funeral services, Rocky Funeral Home for making arrangements.

Rocky and Sylvan Lake Funeral Homes and Crematorium, your Golden Rule Funeral Homes, entrusted with the arrangements, 403 845 2626

Condolences

Jean & Stewart Stephanson:

To all Betty’s family and friends, we would just like to say it was such an honour to have had Betty and Joe Semple in our lives.
Betty had such a radiant smile and a fine sense of humour. She was so very kind to everyone she met, young or old, and her quiet faith carried her through life’s brambles. Our years at the church are rich with memories of Betty and her whole family. We were all so fortunate to have those years knowing her. Cherish the memories.

Jay Jay:

Betty, I miss you so much that I'm about to cry!
I was so shocked by the sudden news of the obituary. I thought it was not good to meet you in person because of Covid-19, so I spent the last year casually, and I am so sad to hear this sad news. Betty called me around the end of last year! If I knew this would happen, I should have met her then, which is a pity. Betty was like my mother here in Canada. I always called her mother in my heart. She comforted me when I was having a hard time and was also interested in helping my wife SALLY adapt to Canada, especially when my daughter was getting married at the Rocky Mountain House, Betty willingly signed as WITHNESS. Betty also provided a place for my son-in-law to stay during his stay in Canada. In a word, she gave my family endless love. My heart aches and I'm sorry to have to let her go, but I'm sure we'll meet again in heaven, so I'm going to stop grieving.
Betty! I will never forget your smile, your humility and your love for us.

Grace Cunningham:

Kathy, David, Glen and Janet:
So sorry for the loss of your Mom.
I have fond memories of her from growing up as neighbors, her friendship with my Mom & Dad
and her tireless involvement in the Church family. Over the last several years I had some visits with her
in Rocky and she was always so happy to catch up on everything; especially about all of you and your families
and of course what was happening in the Church and to reminisce about the past along with the many photo albums.
She will be missed. She was a "Special" lady. My heartfelt sympathy to all of you and your families.

Karen Calzonetti:

As I write this, I can hear Betty's voice in my ears. She had a beautiful way of reaching out to others, ensuring all around her were comfortable. From the first time I met her, and throughout the many years after, she had a way of welcoming friends as family. A twinkle in her eyes, and a smile just as bright, I remember her with great fondness. Her love of family lives on in all of you - Kathy, David, Glen and Janet, and your children. I love the thought that she is up there in heaven fussing over your dad in peace with much laughter and joy in her heart. Rest well, Betty. With love.

Delores Bird:

To Semple family, I am sorry to hear of Betty's passing. Having the Semple family as neighbours for a period of time when we first moved to Rocky was such a pleasure. Although I have not lived there for a long time, Betty, was always a lady I remember well. My sincere condolences to all her loved ones.

Evelyn Griffith:


My sympathy to all the family, i was very sorry to learn of Betty,s passing, I would often meet her in the grocery store and we would have a nice visit and update ourselves on our respective family, also was able to share a few meals with Betty at our friend Matilda,s house . we also enjoyed being neighbors to Joe and Betty and have many happy memories of those times, She will rest in peace , as you could not find a nicer person.

Wes and Tracy Opden Dries:

We am going to miss seeing your mom. She was so kind and always happy. She was a bright spot in the community that will be deeply missed. Keep precious memories close to your heart.

Sherri Carpentier:

Betty was an exceptional neighbor to my family and I for thirty nine years. It says so much about her as a mother that all four of her children came to spend time and take such good care of her in the last months. What a wonderful thing for her. I have never seen a family like this. Betty was a lovely, caring, independent lady. I want to offer my sincerest sympathy. Treasure all the memories you have of her. Your mom will always be in your heart.

Dennis and Fay Chevallier:


Betty will be greatly missed, but her warmth, kindness and gentle spirit will be remembered forever.
God Bless, Dennis and Fay Chevallier.

Larry Holkestad:

To Kathy, David, Glen, Janet and all of your family members. I give you my deepest sympathy and heartfelt sorrow to all of you for your loss of your mother, grandmother, and most of all friend. I remember spending time at the Semple home and seeing all the love your mom gave to all of your friends that came by for visits. She was always nice to everyone. I did see your mom once in awhile in Rocky, either in Sobey's or drug store and would say hi to her. She did not remember me until I said I knew Kathy, Dave, Glen and Janet from high school. She would then perk up when your names were mentioned. For that I am glad to have known her. May you cherish all of the fond memories that you have of your mom and keep them close to your heart moving forward. God Bless, Larry Holkestad.

Post Your Condolence

Please note your condolence will be published on this website, but not immediately. All condolences are reviewed before posting. Privacy and Terms

Our family is committed to caring for your family regardless of race or religion. We provide attentive, compassionate service from the first phone call until long after the funeral is over.

We will help you plan a service, assist you with the many choices and provide support for you and your loved ones in your time of grief. We know every family is unique, and we strive to help you make each service a personal tribute.

Visit our Sylvan Lake Funeral Home website.

Contact UsSend Us a Message

CALL US(403) 845-2626

EM@IL USservice@rockyfuneralhome.ca

STREET ADDRESS4804 48 Street,
Rocky Mountain House, AB
T4T1C3

Privacy and TermsDigital Privacy

Like Us On Facebook

Rocky Funeral Home is owned and operated by Flinn Funeral Services Ltd

Copyright 2024, All Rights Reserved

Login

Funeral Home Website, Rocky Mountain House: Jensii

Cancel