Elizabeth "Betty" Rak

Our beloved Betty passed away on June 10, 2021. She was raised in Langruth, Manitoba and came to Calgary in her teenage years.

Betty was a force of nature. Hardworking, vibrant and energetic, generous and kind, with a great sense of humour. She was the best mom, sister, auntie, friend and grandma. Betty could do anything. She could whip up a 3-piece suit on her sewing machine, re-upholster a couch, bake and cook the most delicious food, and pitch a no-hitter, all while keeping a spotless house. Oh, and do you need to build a deck? She could do that too. She liked reading, gardening, doing all kinds of puzzles, researching her Icelandic heritage, going for walks, finding the best deals, and playing bridge with her group of buddies. With her husband Al, Betty loved to socialize either at home, out at restaurants or Stage West, as well as travelling to Hawaii or Mexico. In recent years she met George, who was a constant companion and provided great love and support.

Betty was predeceased by her husband Al Rak; her brother Bill Johnson; her sister Vera Rennie; and parents Frida Johnson-Henning and Thomas Johnson. She will be enormously missed by her children, Lani Thompson (Al Crow), Tom Thompson, and Keri Rak (Mike Leach); Al's son Travis Rak (Kara); granddaughters Willow and June; and by her partner, George Lane. Also missing Betty will be her brother Bud Johnson (Judi); sister Lilja Carson (James); and her many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

A celebration of Betty's life will be held on Friday, September 3, 2021 at Evan J. Strong Funeral Services (5502 2 Street SW) at 1:00 pm. 

Many thanks to the staff at Garrison Green as well as Units 32 and 71 of Foothills Hospital for their kind and compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to either the Alzheimer Society or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.