Contributions to the tribute of Betty S. Sembler

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Alan uploaded photo(s)

Sunday, March 20, 2022

As a member of Odd Squad Productions Society (OSPS), a Vancouver police-based organization created to educate youth about drug (and later, gang) problems, we were invited to George W. Bush's "Summit for a Drug-Free Texas" in Austin (June 21-22, 1999: see picture of us with Cst. Mark Steinkampf on the right). We became quick fans and friends of each other's work. Over the years, DFAF invited me down to Florida a few times, and on many trips around the world, with her great friend and employee, Calvina Fay. Betty was fond of calling me "Her Canadian". She had such a loving and endearing personality. DFAF and OSPS held a joint (pun intended) international drug conference here in Vancouver. This drove the local "Vansterdam" pothead activists crazy! They actually put in a formal complaint to the Mayor because we picked up and drove Betty from the airport in a police car, partly because of the threats that these activists posed. Betty just laughed it off ("Driving Miss Daisy"). They really underestimated her tenacity and grit. Drug Education and Treatment Programs have richly benefited from her work. Odd Squad members offer our deepest condolences to Mel and his family for their loss. They must take solace in knowing that Betty had such a long, rich and meaningful life. She said that she was "lucky", but we were the lucky ones to have witnessed her powerful, yet graceful, positive influences on so many lives, especially youth. RIP Betty

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Leo and Jane Govoni posted a condolence

Monday, February 28, 2022

Our hearts are with the Sembler family. Condolences and love to all. Betty was a very special person who always brought a big smile to my heart every time I had the wonderful opportunity to see her at a gathering. She was just so caring and people-oriented. She always welcomed us at every event. Our love to all- Leo and Jane Govoni

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Toni Covert posted a condolence

Tuesday, February 22, 2022

Brent and the Sembler Family, our prayers for each of you will be for comfort and peace as you face the days ahead. May the many loving memories that you have shared, fill your hearts. Gods peace be with you. Our deepest Sympathy, Thane and Toni Covert

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Carol Mathis posted a condolence

Sunday, February 20, 2022

Deepest sympathy to the Sembler family, especially my former student Eve. Before Florida Orchestra concerts, I enjoyed many conversations with your grandparents about how wonderful you are!

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Christine Borges lit a candle

Friday, February 18, 2022

Dear Mel, We lost a great lady! Betty will live on in spirit. She touched so many lives with a lot of style and grace. I shall always remember the great times Fernando and I had with you and Betty over the years. One of the best highlights was visiting you in Rome and staying at your residence there. Whether it was dinner out or dinner at my home, it was always a special occasion for Fernando and me. My heart goes out to you and your beautiful family. Love, Chris Borges

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The family of Betty S. Sembler uploaded a photo

Thursday, February 17, 2022

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watson L. Haynes posted a condolence

Thursday, February 17, 2022

Mel and Steve, Brent and Debbie, Greg and Liz and Diane. I have known Betty for some more than 40 years and she was always the same to me. She would reach out to me to express her concerns for my family and my own health. She was passionate about her fight against drugs of any kind and would fight even by herself to make her point and WOW she never gave up. I loved her dearly. She was more than just another advocate. She believed in her mission. I will miss her calls and her passion. She was REAL. Valerie and I enjoyed her hospitality and her gracious hosting and remembering us. We Love You All!

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Judi and Kerry Lebensburger posted a condolence

Thursday, February 17, 2022

Dear Mel, and all your loving family. We know today there are no words to lighten the grief. We do know that you all have had a life filled with extraordinary love and extraordinary experiences. Betty Sembler’s spirit will live on in all your lives. She will always be with you filling you with love, support and guidance. She was one in a million and anyone whose life she touched was better as a result of knowing her. May you find comfort and support in the love of your family and friends.

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Richard Coppola posted a condolence

Thursday, February 17, 2022

Mel, Mimi and I were so sorry to hear about Betty. What a love story you had for so many years. She was such a special person. Our trip to Italy ans Israel was amazing and we will never forget her.

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Jane Molloy Posted Feb 17, 2022 at 3:41 PM

This was a one in a million lady.Her frankness was so refreshing,you never wanted to waste her valuable time and enormous resource.I remember her saying to me "now Jane if you go to Europe in October,don't forget to make hotel reservations,because there are trade shows then." I did not know her well,but just to have a passing encounter truly was joy.Her memory will most definitely be a Blessing

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Betty S. Sembler

1931 - 2022

​(727) 408-6651

(727) 408-6651