Obituary of Betty Louise Relf

RELF: Betty Louise Relf (née Saunders), 78 years of age and a resident of Brandon, made her peaceful journey "home" on Christmas Eve, 2010. Having suffered a massive stroke and a return of cancer, Betty inspired us all with her brave strength, loving kindness and unending hope during her final months in the hospital. Betty was born on March 19, 1932 in a one-room farmhouse in Arden, Manitoba. With her parents, Earl and Gladys, Betty and her sister, Helen moved to Brandon. In high school, Betty met a young man named Don Relf whom she would soon marry. Betty and Don were always together and held the kind of love we all hope for in life. Four children and a big St. Bernard, named Bruno, made the family complete. Betty and Don enjoyed many years together running the family business. Betty shared her passion for crafts when she opened her own consignment store, "Handmade with Love". Betty loved gardening, reading, and spending time at the lake and traveling with Don. Betty also loved cooking and baking and always made the most delicious Sunday suppers. But, what Betty loved most was her family. She treasured the simple, happy fun of family time. She made memories. She was our centre and gave us kindness, love, patience and understanding. These are gifts we will keep forever. Betty is survived by her four children; Cindy (Peter) Relf, Scott Relf and Randy Relf all of Brandon and Robyn (Jeff) Rymer of California. Gramma Betty will be missed dearly by her loving grandchildren; Charlie, Samantha, Mike, Tasha, Shanelle, Amanda, Desarai, Adam, Justin, Jeremy, James and Martin and her great grandchildren; Ahrianna, Dante and Owen. Betty was predeceased by her husband Don, her sister Helen, her mother Gladys, her father Earl, her mother-in-law Evelyn and her brother-in-law, Ray. Over the years, Betty made many friends and if one had ever known her, her kindness, humor, and spirit will remain the warmest of memories. Betty didn't change the whole world, but she changed our world, and always for the better. If you are inspired, please do something kind for another, as Betty would love that more than anything. In accordance with Betty's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will not be a formal memorial service. "Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down on us to let us know they are happy." Shine on Mom, we love you!