Elizabeth "Betty" Marjorie Lynne Bardwell

Betty Lynne Bardwell

(1942-2025)

Betty passed away on March 5, 2025, at the Swan Valley Lodge. Elizabeth Marjorie Lynne Moore was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on October 7, 1942, to David and Sarah Moore. She was the eighth child, following Peggy, Wilson, Doug, Florence, Dorothy, Vera, and Walter.

Growing up on the family farm in Birch River, Betty attended McKinley School and enjoyed horseback riding. As a teenager, she moved to Flin Flon, and this is where she would eventually start her family. Betty had three children: Shelly, Donna, and Guy. After moving back to Birch River, Betty worked as a healthcare aide at the Birch River Hospital. In 1975, she met Frank Gornik. Together, they lived in Birch River, raising the children and working alongside Franky’s brother, driving taxis for a few years. After the business was sold, Betty enjoyed being a homemaker. In 2004, Betty and Franky moved to Swan River, Manitoba. After Franky’s passing in 2019, Betty moved into the Swan Valley Lodge, where she resided until her passing.

Anyone who knew Betty knew she enjoyed a good "beer and bullshit." Whether it was Thursday night bingo in Birch River, competitive poker nights, curling bonspiels or happy hour with friends and family, she always loved a good visit. For many years, Fridays were grocery day and Betty could be found having lunch with her sisters at Woodie's Goodies and later at Chicken Chef. She liked to travel, whether it was for Guy’s hockey, a road trip to B.C., or an adventure to Nashville. Betty loved her country music. In their retirement years, Betty and Franky enjoyed playing cards and visiting at the Senior’s Center. In the warmer months, Betty and Franky could always be found at Steeprock Lake—a place they had enjoyed for over 40 years and where their family still gathers today.

Despite a challenging few years, Betty will always be remembered for her straightforward and quick-witted nature. She will be dearly missed by all.

Betty is survived by her children, Shelly (Laurrie) Graham, Donna (Bud) Schaff, Guy (Kari) Bardwell; grandchildren, Tanya Harkin, Brandi (Rick) Korte, Nikki Harkin, Jensen Bardwell, Peyton Bardwell, Ryan Bardwell; great-grandchildren; sister, Vera McFadyen; some special brothers- and sisters-in-law; numerous nieces and nephews.

Betty is predeceased by her husband, Frank Gornik; parents, David and Sadie Moore; brothers, Wilson Moore, Doug Moore, Walter Moore; and sisters, Peggy Davy, Florence Foster, Dorothy Scott.

If friends so desire, memorial donations in memory of Betty may be made to Swan Valley Health Facilities Foundation Box 1450 Swan River, MB R0L 1Z0.