It is with great sadness that we announce the recent passing of Betty at the Civic Hospital in Ottawa, Ontario; the dearest wife of Joe (Duke) Duquette and loving mother of Michael and Michele (Brown).
Born during the Great Depression in Geelong, Australia, the family lived on small farm in Stonehaven. Betty’s earliest memory was to cut newspaper into squares, and use a needle and yarn to make toilet paper for the outhouse. Her mother died of a stroke when she was 14, resulting in the children quitting school (Betty at Grade 8) to work on the farm. At age 21, Betty, along with two girlfriends, left Australia to see the world and started a 10-year work/travel adventure. Travelling exclusively on Steamer ships, they stopped to work in many countries and raise money for the next experience. When in Europe and working in Germany, Betty met a young Canadian soldier who would be her future husband (Duke). They married and a new lifelong adventure began. Their son Mike was born a year later, and when they rotated back to Canada, Michele was born to complete the family. Betty was a stay-at-home mom and supported the family during many postings, which occurred every three years. Betty never complained and thoroughly enjoyed seeing new places.
Duke and Betty retired in Orleans, Ontario in 1995, and continued travelling throughout Canada. Betty was a two-time breast cancer survivor, having mastectomies in each case. While this prohibited some travel, they spent quality time with short trips and picnics, which Betty loved. Betty made friends easily, and always maintained contact with them and all her extended family in Australia, whom she dearly loved. Betty was wonderful person, always thinking of other’s welfare before own; she will be sadly missed.
Betty is survived by her husband Joe (Duke), son Michael (Nina), daughter Michele (Ben) and she was a dear grandmother to Jordan, Tristan and Zach. She will now join all her siblings; Joyce, Ian and Nancy. Betty is so missed and will not be forgotten. From Duke, “Goodbye my love, you’ll always be in my heart and mind until we meet again.”
Many thanks to the Doctors, nurses and attending staff at the Civic Hospital for their kind and gentle treatment of Betty. The funeral for Betty will be private and for family only, as per Betty’s wishes. In lieu of flowers, donations to be can be made to the Breast Cancer Society of Canada, https://bcsc.ca
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Digital Guestbook
Mike Duquette
Nina Forsyth
Joe, Michelle and Mike, may your memories give you peace and comfort. Someone so special will never be forgotten, Betty may be gone from our sight, but never from our hearts. So sorry for your loss, she will be greatly missed.
Jason Bland
Deepest condolences to the Duquette family. I will always remember fondly the stories Mike would tell of his formidable and charismatic mother that helped forge strong character.
Michele Brown
My dearest Mom,
Words cannot begin to express our love for you. You were the very best Wife, Mom and Grammy. You gave of yourself with your whole heart and your talents were endless. You always told me Michele, is there anything you can’t do? Well Mom, I got that from you!
I will miss our phone chats, complaining about the weather, and discussing what we were making for dinner that night.
We miss you so much already. I will carry you in my heart and mind forever.
Love always, Michele, Ben and Jordan xxxooo
Robert Warren
Heartfelt condolences to the Duquette family during this very difficult time. Betty's strength of character, commitment to others and love of family is an inspiring legacy for others to follow. Mike has spoken often of the love and respect he has for Betty, Joe and Michele. I know you will all be a tremendous support to one another on the path forward. Sincere best wishes from the Warren family in Victoria, BC.
Richard Pelletier
My sincere condolences to the family and friends, May she rest in peace.
Zachary Forsyth
My deepest condolences for the loss of Betty. She was an admirable person who will be sorely missed. I will always remember hearing about the cardinals in the garden. Your memory will forever remain in our hearts
Joe (Duke) Duquette
How does one really comment on a part of himself that he has lost! She was my rock and sole mate for 57 years, my best friend, the person I could always count on regardless of anything. I will never forget her; my darling "Little Betty" ..... who always thought of others first, even during those bad months when she was ill. I'll never forget you my Love; till we meet again. Joe (AKA "Duke" as she always called me)
Jan and Kevin Brown. janjbrown@bigpond.
Duke, Mike and Michelle. We always looked forward to receiving Betty's newsy letters. We felt a part of your family watching and reading about you all growing up. Your memories will keep her near. Jan and Kevin xxx Australia.
Vanessa, Darren and Families in Perth, Australia
Uncle Duke, Mike, Michelle and Families, our hearts are broken for you with the loss of Aunty Betty. Our Mum( Nancy Dec) loved your phone calls Aunty Betty and looked forward to hearing all your Canadian news. You will now be able to have that long awaited cuppa together and remember all the good times.
Our heartfelt love and thoughts to you all, Gods speed Aunty Betty.
Love Vanessa, Darren and Family. Perth Australia
Mom, you were an incredible woman, wife to Dad and mother to Michele and I. You were always there, for everyone always. I would not be the man I am today, without your love and unwavering support. I miss you so much and love you dearly. You will never be forgotten. Xox.