It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Constance (Connie) Ruth Beaton. She left us while in the loving arms of her daughter Moila, as she snuggled next to her best friend Gracie.
Connie was predeceased by her parents, Jack and Hazel Dougan and husband Don Beaton.
She is survived by her daughter Moila, son in law Brian Jenkins and much loved granddaughters Mara and Paula Jenkins.
Connie was born in Parksville and lived most of her life in Qualicum Beach. While growing up, Connie went everywhere on horseback, including an overnight journey at 12 years old where she rode solo to the Comox Valley and back to Qualicum Beach.
In 1953 Connie backpacked to Europe where she attended the Queen's coronation in London on June 2nd of that year. Connie graduated from UBC and became a teacher, teaching first in Williams Lake, BC and then in Qualicum Beach. She was a lifelong member of the University Women's Club where she served a term as President.
She married the love of her life Don Beaton on September 1, 1956, and her only daughter Moila was born in 1958. Connie and Don traveled the world together and enjoyed many winters with their friends in Hawaii and summers spent cruising Desolation Sound on their boat.
In her home or on the boat, Connie was a fabulous cook and enjoyed entertaining guests from all over the world. Connie loved her family, along with the numerous dogs and horses that were a part of her life. Everyone, including the animals, learned to do what she said, when she said!
Connie was always quick to praise Moila for everything from her kind and giving nature to her delicious mashed potatoes (even when Brian had made them). Connie's granddaughters Mara and Paula fondly refer to their time spent with Gramma growing up as "The Connie Beaton School of Etiquette" and recall reading from the "Connie Beaton Book of Manners". Many a High Tea was enjoyed and more than occasionally with corks hitting the ceiling. In Connie's final days her wit remained fully intact.
Connie gave generously, sometimes to a fault, as she supported and sponsored dozens of children in poverty around the world and here in Canada. Connie's passing leaves her family with very large shoes to fill indeed.
The Jenkins family wish to thank the staff of Qualicum Manor for their kind and loving care, and thank all those who sent condolences from around the world.
The family would like to invite those who knew her to a tea at The Jenkins home on Wednesday, December 20th at 2:00 in the afternoon at 305 Poplar Avenue in Qualicum Beach.
In lieu of flowers the family ask that you consider donating to a charity that supports impoverished children.
Rest peacefully dear mother, until we meet again.
To send a condolence to the family please visit www.yatesmemorial.ca
YATES MEMORIAL SERVICES * 250-248-5859
"Lives Cherished and Celebrated"