Elizabeth C. “Betsy” Roak

David Peake
January 3rd, 2020
9 comments

9 comments
  • Betsy will always be a bright shining light. The many times we shared with Betsy, Jake, Chris, Jenny and Lisa when we were all younger will forever and always be a warm camp fire for me. Love you guys.

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  • Pruyn Clement Hildebrand / January 3, 2020 at 9:45 pm

    Betsy blessed us all with a smile that could light up a room. As we live so far away, there weren’t many visits, yet she was a treasured friend and cousin. May wonderful memories of two special souls bring comfort to Christopher, Jenny and Lisa and their families.

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  • Phil and Carolyn Cohan / January 7, 2020 at 10:44 am

    A beautiful tribute to a special and beautiful woman. To know Betsy was a delight. Her charm and good humor was captivating, and the loving relationship with Jake was inspiring.

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  • When I think of Betsy I think immediately of her marvelous voice and her hearty laugh. Betsy exuded a warmth that touched everyone she came into contact with. Betsy’s acts of service were unknown to me but come as no surprise in their shared qualities of acceptance and inclusion.
    Although I didn’t know Jake as well, I believe that the profession of teaching allows a person to touch so many young lives by offering guidance and direction.
    I know that Betsy and Jake’s children and grandchildren have a hole in their hearts and I hope that you can all draw comfort from one another through shared stories and memories of a truly happy couple who parented, loved and celebrated life with zeal.
    You are all in my prayers,
    Alice

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  • Trudy Schwenkler Horrocks / January 9, 2020 at 11:48 am

    Oh Jenny,
    I have such very fond memories of your mom and dad from our PW days and team party at their home. Your mom was always so positive and with wonderful smile on her face. The apple didn’t fall far did it?!
    I am so very sorry for the sudden loss of both your beloved parents in such a short time. But just think what heaven has gained!! One day, you’ll all have a grand reunion with them.
    Praying for you all…
    With love
    Trudy

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  • Maria Großerüschkamp / January 9, 2020 at 1:29 pm

    Dear Chris, Jenny and Lisa, we send our deepest sypathies to you all. Soon after the some how shocking news of the death of your prents and our friends leaped into view so many of the extraordinary memories we could share with you and your parents fo over 50 years. We still feel honorated to have been friends with Betsy and Jake. We will think of you always. Greetings with all our hearts. Cilly and Johannes and all Kids.

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  • I was deeply saddened to learn of Betsy and Jake’s passing. I never had the pleasure of meeting Jake, but I remember Betsy speaking fondly about their trips and adventures. Betsy was an amazing colleague to work with during my years at the Baldwin School. As a member of our support team she brought warmth, compassion and an incredible understanding of the challenges and strengths that students had, as they grew in academic and social skills. She was wise, deeply caring and a very sensible problem solver.. We all loved her laughter and her positive spirit. Her smile brightened everyone’s day! I extend my deepest sympathy to you, her family.

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  • Oh wow. What a life! I remember the woman I knew as “Mrs. Roak” as a warm, kind, and mischievous woman. I am so sorry that she is no longer with us, though grateful to have made her acquaintance many years ago, and amazed by all that she accomplished in her time on earth. I’m not sure I’ve met a person quite so “other oriented” or giving as Mrs. Roak so clearly was.

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  • Frauke Brinkbäumer / February 7, 2020 at 11:54 am

    I still can’t believe that Betsy is no longer with us….so sad….so unreal.
    I remember her as an energetic, adventurous, positive, courageous, strong and bubbly person with the most infectious laugh.
    She seemed fearless, tireless.
    Spending time with her never got boring.
    I am grateful for having met her and she will certainly live
    on in my memories…..there are plenty !

    My deepest regrets to The Wonderful Three ( Lisa, Jen and Chris )
    and their families.
    Your parents were unique, inspiring, unforgettable .

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