Elizabeth Wigglesworth (neé Anderson)

Obituary of Elizabeth Rosemary Wigglesworth (neé Anderson)

October 30, 1932 - July 7, 2022

 

Betty Wigglesworth was born in Calgary on October 30, 1932, and passed away in Calgary on July 7, 2022. Betty was predeceased by her loving husband of 63 years, John Wigglesworth.

 

Betty grew up on a farm near Carseland, Alberta. She was predeceased by an older brother, Nathaniel. Her father, Nathaniel, passed away when Betty was 8 years old. That left her mom, Lucy, in charge of the farm. In 1951, Betty completed high school at the local one-room schoolhouse and promptly moved to Calgary. She enrolled in nursing at the Calgary General Hospital. Betty blossomed during training and classmates became life-long friends. Betty attended all reunions of the Class of ’54, including their 65th in 2019.

 

The day Betty was presented with her black band, she and some freshly minted nurses went to a square dance at the YMCA to celebrate. That same day, John Wigglesworth drove into town. He took a room at the Y and joined the dance. Betty was attracted to the charming man with a British accent. John quickly two-stepped into her heart. Six weeks later she wore his ring. Their wedding bells rang in February 1956.

 

They bought their Highwood home in 1957, just before Ron was born. Daughters Joy and Trish joined the family and their house was filled with love and noisy energy. Determined to give her children the childhood she never had, Christmases and birthdays overflowed with gifts and fun.

 

Betty’s home was her haven. She baked until her last days and generously shared cookies and cake with anyone and everyone. She made delicious meals from their bountiful garden and put-up preserves from their apple tree and “magic raspberry patch.” The yard was planted with lilacs and colourful flowers; it buzzed with bees, while birds flitted from feeders to bird bath.

 

A lifelong reader, Betty loved murder mysteries. She enjoyed the theatre, concerts, music, movies, dancing and walking. She hosted bridge parties and loved a close game of crib. Always social, Betty could chat with anyone.

 

John retired in 1989 so they could travel more. They went to England, drove across Canada and for 20 Septembers, drove to their favourite place, Cannon Beach, Oregon. Betty listened to the ocean while John flew his kites. Long walks, beachcombing and sunsets filled her soul.

 

Grandma Wigg spoiled her grandchildren with stories, games and cookies. She and John attended concerts, assemblies and graduations; they were very proud of their grandchildren.

 

Betty had a big heart, was a loyal friend and loved her family deeply. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 63 years, John Wigglesworth. She will be dearly missed by her children Ron (Rosemarie Boll), Joy Gair (Scott) and Trish Buckley (Bruce). Also left to mourn her passing are grandchildren Stephanie, Josie, Conrad, Kristina, Alex and Mollie, and great-grandchildren Baron and Summerlin.

 

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Chapel of The Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB, on Sunday, July 31, 2022, start time 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the funeral home.

 

Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Betty’s service streamed live on the day of the service here. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed here.

 

In living memory of Betty Wigglesworth, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice.

 

Click here to view Betty Wigglesworth's service folder

 

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