Betty Anne FLAHERTY

Betty Anne Flaherty passed away suddenly on February 5th in beautiful Fernie, BC, a week before her 61st birthday. She was embraced by the mountains, and nature that brought her so much joy.

Best friend to husband John Flaherty, and guiding light for her children: Kelly (Alex) Yard, Sharon (Roy) Vanstone, the late Patrick Flaherty, Tina (Cole) Flaherty, and Katherine (Samuel) Flaherty. She continues to watch over her family as guardian angel to her grandchildren: Evelyn Vanstone, Robin Yard, Baby Vanstone (due February 27), and Baby Kesteloot (due August 6). Beloved daughter of the late Wilma and Marinus Kanters, and Christine and the late Bernard Flaherty, and adored sister of Albert (Anne) Kanters, Ed (Lynne) Kanters, Micheal (Colleen) Kanters, the late Paul (survived by Helen) Flaherty, Dave Flaherty, Joanne (Mark) Campbell, Marianne (Dave) Harrison, and Michael (Gaitanne) Flaherty. She was a much-loved aunt, treasured by her twenty-three nieces and nephews, who she held a special place for in her heart.

Betty Anne was the embodiment of home to so many; being held in her arms felt like love itself. Those lucky enough to share a glass of wine or a crisp Diet Coke with her knew she was the perfect person to celebrate your wins, grieve your losses, or simply make you laugh. Her family encourages everyone to carry a little of her spirit into each day by taking a walk in nature, sharing a kiss with a loved one (grandchildren especially!), or singing along to the radio in the car. She will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched, and her role as the matriarch of her family is truly impossible to fill.

Funeral Mass will be held near the family farm on Wednesday, April 1st at 11:00 a.m. at St. Cornelius Roman Catholic Church, 16631 Kennedy Rd., Caledon L7C-2H9 (Hamlet of Silvercreek), followed by a reception to celebrate her life.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alzheimer's Society of Canada and The Elk Valley Hospital through the East Kootenay Foundation of Health.