Obituary of Blanche Nora Botkin

BOTKIN - Thursday, February 14, 2008, Blanche Nora (nee Lefurgey) passed away peacefully at the age of 83 years. It is fitting that it was on the traditional day of romance that she rejoined her husband John, who predeceased her in 2003. Blanche was born in Prince Edward Island but moved west with her family, living in Saskatoon and Regina, before settling in Rouleau, Saskatchewan. It was here that she met the love of her life, John Botkin, whom she married on November 30, 1946. Blanche enjoyed all sports, both as a spectator and participant, especially curling where she skipped many rinks in the ladies league, as well as competing in bonspiels in Rouleau and Regina. In later years, she maintained a keen interest in all sports, never missing a televised Roughrider or Blue Jays game. She especially enjoyed card games and participated in a bridge club for many years. Blanche was a member of the Daughters of the Nile and the Rouleau Chapter of Eastern Star for more than 20 years, serving as Worthy Matron several times. As well as supporting her husbands farming, Blanche was also his partner in a small store named Blanches Gift Shop. But her greatest role was that of mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was devoted to her children and her family was the focus of her life. She will be deeply missed by her five children, Peggy (John) Allen, Geri (Lindsay) Zacharias, June Botkin, Joan (David) Pletz and Stephen (Lisa) Botkin, nine grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. Her happiest moments were always when she was surrounded by her family and so a private family service has been planned to celebrate her life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in memoriam, to the Canadian Diabetes Association, 917 Albert Street, Regina S4R 2P6 or the Saskatchewan Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Inc., 2341 Broad Street, Regina S4P 1Y9. An online book of condolences may be signed at www.speersfuneralchapel.com