Obituary of LEITCH – Martha Elizabeth

December 3, 1929 – March 10, 2011 Martha Elizabeth (Betty) Leitch (nee Galbraith) of Calgary passed away unexpectedly following a brief illness on Thursday, March 10, 2011 at the age of 81 years. “Ma” was the centre of a loving family and will be deeply missed by her children, Cindy (Gary), Peter (Leslie), Pamela (Roger), David (Joanne), and Benson and her thirteen grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Peter in November 2010. Betty was born on a farm near Forget, SK, the middle of eight children. In the true spirit of adventure, Betty came to Calgary in the early 1950s where she met Peter. Betty and Peter raised their five children in Calgary and also made their home in Bermuda, New York and Toronto before retiring back to Calgary to be close to family and grandchildren. Betty was a graceful hostess, avid golfer and world traveller. She made the most of the experiences afforded to her. At her 80th birthday party she stated she felt privileged to have led such a wonderful life. All who Betty loved and befriended consider themselves blessed to have been inspired by her strength, cheered by her humour and transformed by her profound love of family. Mom was very proud to be a farm girl from Saskatchewan where her humble beginnings provided her exceptional common sense. She will always be remembered as our “Classy Lady”. Mom believed that charity begins at home and family was everything. In her memory we ask everyone to spend time with and enjoy their families. Funeral Services will be held at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church (703 Heritage Drive S.W.) on Thursday, March 31 at 2:00 pm. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In lieu of flowers the family wishes you to consider a donation to the Calgary Health Trust – Rockyview General Hospital, ICU, Suite 800 11012 MacLeod Trail SE Calgary, AB T2J 6A5 (Telephone 403-943-0615, www.thetrust.ca) or a donation to a charity of your choice. In living memory of Betty Leitch, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403)243-8200.