B. EVELYN BATEMAN

( née Draper)

Died peacefully on Saturday, September 24, 2022, at the age of 92, at Creek Way Village in Burlington, Ontario. Evelyn was predeceased by her husband, Rodney (1985); her sister, Dolores (Dot) Laurie (2014); and her brother, James (Jim) Draper (2020). Evie will be missed by her sister-in-law, Shirley Draper. Evie was a cherished aunt to Debbie Aziz (Bill), Diane Draper (Miles DeRosse), Derek Draper (Jenn), Leanne Laurie and Kevin Laurie (Tammy); and a greataunt to Stephanie Macyszyn, James and Jillian Aziz, Joshua, Jakob, Joseph and Jamisen Draper, Eric and Megan Laurie.

More than anything, Evie loved spending time with her family. She organized annual trips to Niagara-on-the-Lake to attend the Shaw Festival and hosted many family gatherings at her farm in Cookstown. Her happy place was Lake of Bays where she spent many years building memories with family and friends. Aileen Blair was her special friend and cottage neighbour.

Evie was a voracious reader. She looked forward to her weekly trips to Chapters. Reading the International Express, The Week’s News from Britain was a ritual and she looked forward to her telephone calls with her sister Dot to compare progress made with the crossword puzzle.

Evie’s favourite time of the year was canning season, where she would gather fresh fruits and vegetables from the farms in and around Cookstown and Alliston. For many years, Evie made Christmas baskets for her family and friends that included the much-anticipated Blueberry Jam, Brandied Peaches, Dill Pickles, Harvest Relish, Rum soaked Christmas Cake, a bottle of Ice Wine and many other goodies.

Cremation has taken place and a private Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. In memory of Evelyn, consider donating to the Shaw Festival at www.shawfest.com/donate, or to a charity of your choice.

Many thanks to the wonderful staff at Creek Way Village for their care and compassion.

This life for me has truly passed, I loved you all till the very last. Weep not for me but courage take, and love one another for my sake.