March 7, 1933 - November 27, 2023
In Loving Memory ~
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Mrs Betty Purkiss.
Betty was born March 7th 1933 in Chilliwack BC. to parents Sara and Oliver Wells, dairy farmers and owners of Edenbank farm, Sardis, BC.
Betty graduated from Chilliwack Senior High School, then obtained her Registered Nursing degree in 1954 from St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC.
It was during that final year of the nursing program, that Betty went out on a blind date. A blind date that lasted 68 years. Betty married Robert Thomas Purkiss, a local New Westminster Electrician in September 1954. Nursing took a willing back seat to the rearing of her children and all that entails. Betty and Bob settled in Port Coquitlam as a home base.
As her family grew, Betty' s artistic side flourished! She would sew for hours, creating magnificent quilts and garments. She created beautiful decorative crafts at Christmastime. Always up to a challenge, Betty enjoyed jigsaw puzzles which became a lifelong hobby. Being an avid reader she has obtained full collections of her favorite authors, which she has added to and re-read throughout her lifetime.
Inquisitive Betty felt the need to know, to be of service, to help, and to assist others. And so began a lifelong journey of society memberships, volunteering and mentoring. Never forgetting her roots she was a lifelong member of The Chilliwack Museum. Stayed involved in their fund raising activities and made thoughtful donations from the Wells family belongings.
Later when living in Campbell River She became an active member and volunteer for The Campbell River Museum. And like her own mother, she held a life long membership with PEO (woman's educational organization).
Betty also assisted with her children's school outings and field trips, as well as her daughter's Girl Guides groups. She held the position of RN for the Guide's Camp Soona near Hope, BC. Betty progressed to being appointed The Provincial Camp Adviser for the Girl Guides of Canada.
In later years Betty enjoyed volunteering with Pets n Friends. She and her yellow Labrador "Chuckles" then yellow lab Kaija would visit with patients in long term care at the Campbell River General Hospital each and every week for over 7 years.
In addition Betty became a Seniors Counsellor with the Province of BC. Helping seniors with service referrals, and assisting with their pension applications.
As well she held a position as a RCMP Victim Services volunteer, working with victims of crime. As well, she held a position as board member with The Campbell River Volunteer Society. Additionally Betty served as Chairperson at Tribunals for clients of The Ministry of Social Development.
Betty was predeceased by her husband of 68 years Bob Purkiss, daughter Ann Marie Purkiss and brother in law Dr Richard Weeden.
Betty leaves behind her daughters Elizabeth and Nancy, son Robert and her sister Marie Weeden
Betty will be best remembered as a kind, thoughtful person. A stranger would feel at ease in her presence. She had a gentle sincerity about her - showing consideration to all.
A true lovely lady.
Our gratitude goes out to Jaquline and her staff at Golden Grove Care Home. They provided Betty with outstanding professional and quality care. Hats off to you Golden Grove!
Betty's family invite you to join them at her Celebration of Life Ceremony. Being held Friday, January 5th at Suttons Funeral Home, 502 South Dogwood St, Campbell River. Service at 11am, reception to follow 12-2pm.
Service Details
11:00 AM