Elizabeth (Betty) Trakas (nee Risebrough) passed away peacefully at St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Elliot Lake on Wed. Oct. 17th, 2018 after a courageous fight with cancer.
Born in Port Perry, Dec. 6th 1938, Betty moved to Toronto to pursue a teaching career that would turn into a passion for inclusive education that continued throughout her life. In Toronto, Betty met and married Michael Trakas (deceased 2010). They moved to Aurora in 1972 with their daughters Allaurien (Cousins) and Mary (Ridgley). Betty became an active member of Trinity Anglican, Aurora where she taught Sunday school, ran the Junior Auxiliary and served on various committees. Betty continued her work with special needs pre-school students at Northminster Childcare until her retirement.
Betty and Mike retired to Elliot Lake where they were able to be close to Allaurien, her husband Peter and her grandchildren Devlin and Kineta, who became her passion and joy. Betty loved her role as dance grandma, chauffeur and creative companion. She was a grandma who would try everything her grandchildren threw her way.
As an integral member of St. Peter the Apostle Anglican Church, Elliot Lake, Betty taught Sunday school, was a member of the women’s and altar guilds, and served as people’s warden among her many roles. Betty became actively involved in the welfare of her community, working for many charities and service groups. She will always be remembered for her long time commitment to others as President of the Elliot Lake Emergency Food Bank.
Betty was an inspiration and support to so many throughout her life. As a wife, mother, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, and most proudly a grandmother, she worked tirelessly for the good of others. Her sage advice, wit and wisdom will be missed but treasured by all those who were so blessed to have had Betty in their lives.
A celebration of Betty’s life will take place at St. Peter the Apostle Anglican Church in Elliot Lake on Saturday November 3rd, 2018 at 1pm and at Trinity Anglican Church in Aurora on Saturday November 24th, 2018 at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Elliot Lake Emergency Food Bank or St. Peter the Apostle Anglican Church directly or through CanadaHelps.org