Betty Louise Conlin (née Ollinger) of Kincardine, died peacefully with family beside her, Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2019, at the age of 86. Beloved wife of the late George Conlin. Cherished mother of Marty (Jane) Proudlove, Anne-Marie (Bob Taylor) Benedict, Mary Jo (Joe) Glatt, Stephen (Anna) Conlin, and Marc (Kate Maryon) Proudlove. Proud grandmother of nine grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Missed by her sisters, Bernice Hagen, Lorene Ruymar and Alice Allerdyce. Predeceased by her parents, Adam and Elizabeth (née Simpart) Ollinger; and her son, Paul Proudlove. Betty was best known as one of Kincardine’s local artists, and the inspiration for the Labyrinth Peace Garden in Geddes Park. She had great love for her family, friends and community, and will be forever remembered for her passion, creativity and her radiant smile. Her artwork has been displayed locally, as well as across Canada, and her spirit shines through the Peace Garden. She has been a great inspiration to all who have known her. At the age of 83, she was still happy to work in her gardens, and was thrilled to be part of the Kincardine Horticultural Society's “Through the Gate” garden tour that year (2015). Her backyard was where she built the prototype of the Peace Garden which was built 15 years ago, complete with Betty's statue of the Eirene, Greek Goddess of Peace. An artist since she was 19 years old, Betty worked in fashion design and then shifted her sights to quilting, 3D artwork, and sculpture. At one point, she was instructing classes in a wide range of art, quilting, silk-dyeing, and sculpture. But she decided to slow down a bit and teach only in the Kincardine area, while maintaining her involvement in the quilt guild and the horticultural society. "At 83, I'm not 100-per-cent retired," she said, with a grin. A Celebration of Life to remember Betty, will take place at the Davey-Linklater Funeral Home, Kincardine, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2019 from 3-5 p.m. Following Betty’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Memorial donations to Friends of the Labyrinth, Victoria Park Gallery or Canadian Cancer Society, would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy and can be made through the funeral home (519-396-2701). If possible please keep donations local to show support for our community. |
