Obituary

Elizabeth Catherine West
November 21, 1920 ~ November 7, 2005.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, November 11, 2005~ 11:00 AM
St. John Neumann Catholic Church, Irvine, California.

Betty West was an adventurous spirit who lived life to the fullest.
Born in Philadelphia to Irish Catholic parents, she had four brothers and two sisters. Her father died when she was five years old. Married in Philadelphia during World War II, she moved to California in 1954. She raised seven devoted daughters, and loved and charished all her sons-in-law, 13 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Her daughters remember her as the driving force in their lives. She encouraged independence, allowed them to make their own decisions and supported them in what they wanted to do. She exemplified courage, moral values and had the internal fortitude to dream new dreams. She was not only a wonderful mother, but also a joy and inspiration in our lives.

Affectionately known as Granny, her grandchildren remember her as a loving and caring force. She was a special confidant, great history teacher, knowledgeable homework advisor, fabulous story teller and source of laughter with her many jokes. She was a ?creative? cook; a social card player with her friends and a fun loving shopping advisor for her daughters. She had a flair for fashion and style that began in her youth.

Betty was self educated with a lifetime love of learning. Her vast knowledge was derived from her enjoyment of reading, theatre, art, museums, and history. A world traveler, she had an open mind, friendly spirit and interest in all who crossed her path.

A resident of Irvine for 24 years, she was involved in many church and community activities. Along with her family, she had a wealth of friends and relatives who loved her. She will be deeply missed.

For every joy that passes, something beautiful remains.