It is with a very heavy heart we announce the passing of one of our very own. On the morning of December 9, 2020, Elizabeth “Betty” Bordeau passed away at her home in the loving care of her two wonderful children, Betsy and Bruce Bordeau.
Betty began her career with the City of Norwich and the Rose City Senior Center on September 6, 1988. For 14 years she was the full-time Clinical Receptionist until the position was reduced to part-time in July of 2002. Betty worked part-time from July of 2002 until July of 2009, then volunteered her time as she continued to work tremendously hard to ensure the Senior Center Preventive Health Clinic ran smoothly. Over the years she was the secretary for Dr. Gerard Kerins, Nurse Practitioner Cynthia L’Heroux, Nurse Nancy Pratviel and some for current Nurse Practitioner, Leonna White. During this time, she was also in charge of scheduling and other duties that came along with the Senior Center Foot Care Clinics and Dr. Thomas Walter.
In addition to her duties as our Clinic Receptionist, she was “Mrs. Christmas” as far as we were concerned. For over 25 years, Betty and her late husband William, along with their children Betsy and Bruce and eventually Bruce’s wife Stephanie and their 2 children Evan and Brooke could be seen here many days surrounding Christmas. On Christmas Day they hosted almost 100 seniors, who may not have had another place to go or people to be with, for a luncheon. The luncheon consisted of an hour of hors d’oeuvres, followed by a beautiful turkey dinner and then some great games of bingo. During the program, Santa Claus always made an appearance, bearing gifts for all.
In January of 2003 then Lt. Governor Jodi Rell presented Bill and Betty Bordeau with the CT Treasure’s Award for their outstanding commitment to helping those who are less fortunate.
Many people have many great stories that center around Betty and the majority of them would probably involve some sort of prank or joke. She had an infectious smile, a wittiness that was unmatched and a genuine care for others that cannot be replaced.
Rest in Peace Betty Bordeau.
You’ll be forever missed and cherished by all you’ve come in contact with.