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Peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, Betty Ann Shortreed passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Bluewater Health, at the age of 91.
Betty Ann was born in Sarnia, Ontario, on November 16, 1933, the only daughter of Alvin and Florence (née Lumby) Maw. After graduating high school at just 16, she began her career with Imperial Oil in Sarnia, starting as a secretary and working her way up to Executive Assistant. She was later transferred to Toronto, where she was part of the pioneering efforts around Canada’s oil sands discoveries.
It was in Toronto that Betty Ann was set up on a blind date with her future husband, Bob Shortreed, then a medical student at the University of Toronto. Betty Ann and Bob were married in June 1956, beginning a lifelong journey together. She retired from Imperial Oil to support Bob’s medical career, which took them to Texas for further studies before they settled in Sarnia in January 1966. There, Bob established his medical practice, and Betty Ann played a vital role managing the office in various capacities for over 40 years, all while being a devoted mother, deeply involved in her children’s activities.
She will be lovingly remembered by her children Bobbi (Leon), Rob (Jennifer), and Mary Sue (Rob); and her six grandchildren, the joy of her life: Zoë and Aidan Aarts (Bobbi and Leon), Nathan and Benjamin Shortreed (Rob and Jennifer), and Jakob and Lucas Knowles (Mary Sue and Rob). She will also be missed by her beloved dog, Angel.
Betty Ann is survived by her dear sister-in-law, Sharon Maw. She was predeceased by her husband Bob, her brothers Morley and Jim, sisters-in-law Gloria and Ingrid, her parents Alvin and Florence Maw, and her in-laws Carl and Jessie Shortreed.
The family cherished many vacations together at their condo in St. Pete’s Beach, Florida. Betty Ann was an active member of High Park United Church, where she built many lasting friendships. She worked alongside Bob for years creating Dr. Bob’s Delights for the church Christmas bazaar, with proceeds supporting church programs. Betty Ann also spent countless hours knitting slippers, hats, and mittens, donating them to local charities, and she faithfully supported Sarnia’s food banks with weekly contributions.
Cremation has taken place. A private family interment of ashes will be held at Lakeview Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to an Open House to celebrate Betty Ann’s life on Sunday, June 8, 2025, from 12:00–2:00 p.m. at The Smith Family Centre, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.
Sympathy may be expressed through donations to St. Joseph’s Hospice or the Sarnia Humane Society (please note: cheque only if donating at the funeral home). Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.smithfuneralhome.ca.
“While God has you in His keeping,
we will always have you in our hearts.”
November 16th 1933 May 29th 2025
Death notice for the town of: Sarnia, Province: Ontario
death notice Betty Ann Shortreed November 16th 1933 May 29th 2025
obituaries notice Betty Ann Shortreed November 16th 1933 May 29th 2025
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Betty Ann Shortreed November 16th 1933 May 29th 2025 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
