BETHUNE, Carol Therese (nee White)

It is with deep sadness the family announces the peaceful passing of Carol Bethune (nee White), on October 3, 2017 at the North Bay Regional Health Centre. Born in North Bay on February 9, 1930, Carol was the youngest child of John (Jack) White and Corinne (Bunny) Kirouac dit Baker.
Friends for years before being wed, Carol was the beloved and devoted wife of the late James Francis (Frank) Bethune for more than 45 years. Married on May 26, 1952 at the Pro-Cathedral of the Assumption in North Bay they lovingly raised their family, always welcoming their children to bring friends home to be 'part of the family', to join in the laughter and teasing. There was always room for more at Mom and Dad's table. For this and so much more they are loved and admired.
Thankful for her unconditional love and ever-present guidance, Carol is survived by her loving children Cindy Bethune (Jim Mills), Janice Langill (Peter), Chris Bethune (Leslie), Bruce Bethune (Carole-Ann), and Nancy Bethune, 15 adored grandchildren, Michael, Andrew and Jen Mills (James Yantha), Cody, Brianne (Jacob Carriere), Kelsi, Jordanna, and Carter Langill, Jesse, Brett and Mitchell Bethune, Sara, Adam, Ashley and Stephanie Bethune, and three great-grandchildren, Lucas and Thomas Carriere, and Kinsley McLaughlin. We have all thrived under Mom/Nan's wonderful hugs, her joyful outlook, her lively humour and continual encouragement.
Carol was predeceased by her sisters Gloria Corbeil (late John) and Dorothy Relph (late Len) and her brother Gordon White (survived by Irene) and in-laws Gord Ross, Ferg and Dorothy Bethune and Patricia Bethune. She is survived by her in-laws Margaret Ross, Jack Bethune, Basil and Cathy Bethune, Ray Bethune, Dave and Cathy Brennan and many nieces and nephews.
Mom was first and foremost our Mom, our constant, who by example, showed us the importance of a non- judgmental listening ear, being there without question, supporting one another, regular family gatherings, hugs, kisses, kindness and a ready, beaming smile. Mom/Nana made each person feel they were the most important person in the room.
Mom was a talented figure skater and dancer and encouraged her family to enjoy all forms of music, theatre and dance as well as sports. Mom strongly believed in the importance of being outside and having fun. "Go outside and play but be home for supper!" was Mom's mantra. Mom studied and instructed at Eileen Chester and Hilda Palmer's dance studios in North Bay in the 1930s, 40's and fifties. Mom attended St. Joseph's Girls College and St. Mary's Academy in North Bay and retired from the North Bay Psychiatric Hospital in 1990 after 20 years of service, having previously worked in local TB Chest Clinics. Mom served as a Girl Guide leader for Widdifield 2nd Company in the 1970s and attended St. Peter the Apostle Church.
As per Mom's wishes cremation has taken place. Memorial Mass to celebrate Mom's life and influence will be held at St. Peter's Church, Airport Road, North Bay on Saturday, November 4 at 10:00 a.m.
Donations to the North Bay Regional Health Centre Foundation (Renal Care or Cardiac Care) in Carol's name will be gratefully appreciated by the family.