Beth (Abraham) Farnsworth
Passed peacefully with family at her side, on her 88th birthday, March 15th, at Huronlea Home for the Aged. Pre-deceased by her beloved husband Melvin, mother of sons Carl (Wilma), Joe, Pete (Patty), loving grandmother of Laura, Bryan, Mike (Mariah), Chris, and is survived by sisters Dorothy Stanton and Kay Pauli, and many nephews and nieces. Predeceased by father Thomas Carroll Abraham and mother Iris Abraham, one brother and three sisters.
Beth was born fifth of seven children of “TC” and Iris Abraham on a small farm outside of Paris, Ontario – once she plunked a groundhog with a .22 from her bedroom window – it was that kind of up-bringing. At an early age, Beth developed a life-long love of reading, escaping to a more genteel place and time. Beth enjoyed the camaraderie of high school life, cheerleading, and sports so much that she was reluctant to leave on her last day of classes.
It was while working as a waitress at The Palms diner that Beth was first romanced by Mel, who turned out to be “the One” for her; they were married on September 8, 1958 and settled down in Paris to raise their family of three boys, moving to Stratford, then Goderich in 1974. Beth and Mel were avid campers and travellers, crossing the country in tent or trailer, canoeing in the back country of Killarney Park, or backpacking around Europe.
Beth worked as bookkeeper for an insurance agency in the first years of her marriage, then later for an accountant in Goderich; her most unusual and favourite job was the proof-reading of Harlequin Romance novels in Stratford. Beth also gave a lot of her time in service to the community, such as the church youth group she hosted, volunteering for Meals and Wheels and the Salvation Army, and years of billeting international students as guests in her home.
Beth will be remembered by many as a True Lady, with a genuine laugh which drew those around to her. In keeping with Beth’s wishes, the only memorial will be a private family gathering. Donations may be made in Beth’s memory to either the Alzheimer Society of Canada or the Canadian Cancer Society.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Jim and Jan Bentley
Dear Farnsworth family, our deepest sympathy and condolences to all.
Beth was a gracious lady full of love, life, and humor yet a serious dedicated worker as well. The day she came to work telling us she thought she was going blind brought us all to a big belly laugh as we told her she had lost one of the lenses in her sunglasses. It was an honor to have known her.
Cecelia Denomme
Dear family – Mel and Beth have been a special part of our community – with their caring and volunteering –
With special remembering and sympathy – Cecelia Denomme
Wilson Abraham
Gwen and I always enjoyed our visits and dinners with Beth and Mel. They kindly hosted our family reunions. You were very fortunate to have such exceptional parents. More recently, Mel kept me posted on Beth’s condition. Unfortunately, the Abraham”s first cousins numbers are dwindling. My sincere condolences to the Farnsworth family.
Wilson
Sharri MacDonald
Dear Carl, Wilma, Laura and Bryan
You have my heartfelt condolences on the passing of your Mom and Grandma. Beth was such a lovely lady and she will be missed by many.
Sharri
Mary Ellen and Brian Coombs
Beth was a kind and lovely person. She was a devoted Mom, Nini and a wonderful friend to our parents. Her giggle was infectious and she always enjoyed a good story. We extend our deepest sympathy to Carl, Joe, Pete, Wilma, Patty, Laura, Bryan, Chris and Mike. ❤️
Margo Bettger-Hahn
Beth was indeed a true lady, whose company was enjoyed by all the Bettger family. Our sincerest sympathy to you all.
Jim Bissett
Pete, Patty , Joe and Family
Sorry for your loss, my condolences
Jim,Denise and Family
Jacquie Rahbek
To all Beth’s family
I was so saddened to hear of Beth’s passing. Mel & Beth welcomed us to First Baptist and we became very good friends. A friendship that lasted the 35 years we lived in Goderich and beyond.
Beth & I spent many hours working together at our church. The four of us would often go out for lunch and drives together on a Sunday afternoon.
My deepest sympathy to all of her family.
With love and prayers
Jacquie & family
Bev Whetstone
Beth and Mel were neighbors of mine for many years. You would find Beth outside reading and Mel whistling away and working in his garden. You could not wish for better neighbors. Now they are together. Rest in peace Beth and Mel.
Bill and Karen Fry
Please accept our condolences as you remember Beth
Terry Ducharme
I was so privileged to work with Beth. She was such a wonderful mentor and though always a lady loved a good laugh with a mischief in her eyes. Beth always came to work with a smile and perfect work ethic. We shared many coffee and lunch dates after I moved on and I will treasure those. I am so sorry for your loss. Sending hugs and prayers.