Elizabeth Margaret Hunter

February 16, 1947 - February 22, 2025

Elizabeth was never one to make a fuss about herself, so we’re doing it for her. Born in Perthshire, Scotland, she spent her early years in Glasgow before immigrating to Canada in 1952 with her mother and brother. She was only a year old when her father, Dr. George Hunter, passed away in 1948. Her mother, Margaret Weir Hunter (née Scott), was a strong and determined woman who went back to university after his passing before making the courageous decision to start a new life in Canada with her two young children. At just five years old, Elizabeth took her first flight on the journey to Canada, marking the beginning of what would become a lifetime of travel.

They eventually settled in Regina, Saskatchewan, where Margaret built a new life for her family. She instilled in Elizabeth the same resilience and independence, qualities that defined her throughout her life. At 18, Elizabeth set off on her own, working her way east with plans to return to Scotland and search for her roots. But fate had other plans when a stop in Toronto changed everything. While working at the Biltmore Theatre, she met Hans. A year later, they were married, building a life and family together in Toronto.

She was predeceased by her parents, Margaret and Dr. George Hunter, her former husband Hans Gunther Bechtel (with whom she remained good friends), and her granddaughter Kristina Elizabeth Vetter.

Elizabeth is survived by her children and grandchildren: Jennifer Vetter (Peter) and their son Matthew (Kayla); Terry Bechtel (Cristina) and their son Xavier; Karin Staley (Travis) and their children Trenary, Ophelia, and Findley; and Megan Bechtel (Matthew) and children Neil (Samantha), Ray, and Liam. She is also survived by her brother, David Hunter (Linda), and her nieces, Shanda, Tanya, and Kaeling.

Mum was always there, supporting her family. To her grandchildren, she was Gramma, a constant presence who adored them and made sure they always knew how much they were loved. She cherished her friendships and will be deeply missed by those who knew her.

Elizabeth found her vocation later in life, after years of raising her children. She valued education and lifelong learning, returning to school before spending many years working in the travel industry. Later, she looked after her grandchildren and then started working at the very school they attended. She “retired” multiple times—but somehow, Ms. Hunter always ended up back at the job she loved.

She had a sharp wit, a deep love for books and theatre, and an unstoppable urge to travel. With a passport full of stamps, she explored the world, always eager for the next adventure. And despite claiming she was done collecting books, she somehow always found room for more. She also lived in steadfast denial of being a closet royal watcher, despite all the evidence found. But above all, she loved her family.

Elizabeth was unwavering in her care for others, but she was also pragmatic. When her mother’s health declined, she picked up everything and returned to Saskatchewan to care for her, making sure she could remain at home until the end. Years later, when her former husband fell ill, she stepped in once again, acting as his primary caregiver and advocate, ensuring he had the care and support he needed. She was by his side throughout, as their bond endured. Having seen firsthand how much suffering was out of one’s control, she made sure she would face the end on her own terms.

Her final wish was to remain at home, and it was a great honour for her family to drop everything and care for her, just as she had done for so many others over the years. She passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family, at the age of 78.

A heartfelt thank you to the doctors and nurses at Scarborough General Hospital for their excellent care. A special thank you to Dr. Singh, Dr. Brickman, and Nurse Lee, whose kindness and dedication gave us one final Christmas and her birthday together. We are forever grateful.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no service. If you’d like to honour her, please consider a donation to a charity of your choice.