Mary "Betty" Elizabeth (Crane) Mender

Sadly, Betty passed away from Alzheimer's on March 14, 2018.

Betty lived in the community of Northfields in Haverhill MA for over 20 years. Her late husband Buzzy and she selected this area when it was in its construction phase. After her husband passed unexpectedly, she was to live out her life in this beautiful, safe, caring neighborhood.

Born on February 19, 1937, Betty grew up in Revere, MA. She was the daughter of Francis Howell and George Crane. She survived her sisters, Ruthie and Barbara, and her brothers George and John. Growing up, life wasn't easy for any of them; she instinctively protected them, she was a fighter to survive and she wasn't leaving them behind.

Betty fell in love with Buzzy, they married in 1952 at the age of 16 and 19. Together they created a happy, beautiful life in Melrose, MA with their two children whom loved her immensely. Later in years they took in two foster children, Mark and Linda, and provided a stable family life to them.

Kenny, Kaylee, Alayna and Emily are her treasured grandchildren. Ever since they were babies, Betty started collections for each one of them, writing their names on the bottoms of each piece which will now be theirs to have in their own homes. Her and Buzzy set up college funds for each of them, wanting to give the kids every advantage possible. Her generosity, her time, and her love were endless when it came to them. She was so proud of every one of them!

Betty was the cherished mother of Lauri Greer and Bill Mender; she loved Bill's wife, Gale Mender. She missed so many of her family members who had passed. First and foremost she missed her late husband Buzzy. In the end of her disease, when she starting "sun-downing" (a term commonly used to describe a mysterious intensity of fear, confusion, and anxiety starting precisely at 3pm everyday), she would call out to him, try to find him, she is with him now.

Betty kept a beautiful home, was an outstanding cook and cake decorator, loved crafts, reading, and traveling. She also loved playing golf and tennis. She was always up for competition and fun! And she was a sensational dancer!!!

Very generous to all, she loved entertaining family and friends. She had a warm charm in welcoming you into her home. Visitors never checked their watches to leave. They loved her! Everyone loved her!

The last 5 years of Betty's life, while the progression of the disease slowly took away her freedom, special friends Gus LeoCata and Helen Morrison remained devoted to her thru the darkest hours. Also good friends to the end were Yvette Crane (sister in law) and June Sheridan, thank you!

The family is planning a "Celebration of Life" day to honor beautiful Betty. It's being held at the Clubhouse in Northfields on Beechwood Drive in Haverhill MA., on Friday March 30, 2018 between the hours of 4pm - 8pm. We will be serving food and drink.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Alz.org in Betty's name, or mail to Alzheimer's Association, 309 Waverly Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA 02452, to help find a cure for this devastating disease.

***Betty's granddaughters have a *special request: "Please wear a small touch of *red, I.e., a ribbon, bow, socks, etc., to honor their grandmother, Betty, aka "Betty Boop" ***