Betty Ann Ducharme (Russell)
Betty Ann Ducharme (Russell) passed away peacefully on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2023. She was 85 years young. She was predeceased by her husband, Adelord Ducharme; parents, Alfred and Irene Russell; brothers, Bob and Bruce; sister, Nancy; stepson, Troy; and step-grandson, Reece Ducharme.
Betty is survived by her two daughters, Gina (Harvey) and Treasure; one grandson, Korbin (Chelsey); and two great-grandchildren, Odin and Fynn Ducharme. She also leaves her three stepchildren, Myra Lee (Greg), Gerry (Gladys) and Graham and their children Dwayne, Todd, Craige, Sheri-Lynn, Blake, Robin, Mackenzie and Julien; along with her two remaining siblings, Don and John Russell.
There are countless nieces and nephews across BC and Alberta that will always fondly remember Aunty Betty and life on the farm.
Betty leaves a long legacy of living and working in the small farming community of Westlock for over 65 years. She loved the farm life and cherished her chickens, turkeys and horses. Betty worked for many years as an insurance agent at Murfitt’s Insurance. She later drove hundreds of local farm kids on the school bus of which many will remember her pedal to the metal driving. She always grew a huge garden and shared the amazing produce with pride. She was most known for her huge bear hugs that many thought cracked their ribs!!! Later in life she was also very proud of becoming fluent in Spanish.
Betty was a pillar in the community and knew almost everyone and had many close friends and neighbours who were like family to her.
As per her wishes, there will be no formal celebration of life. A formal thank you to her niece Sandy Russell for all her love and care and to all the staff at the Mayerthorpe Healthcare facility for assisting mom with due care in her final days.
