Ches and Betty Fulton
Ches and Betty Fulton

A sad farewell: the Fultons love Huntsville, and the feeling is mutual

Every week, I will be profiling an extraordinary human being who lives in our community. If you know someone who is doing something interesting with their life, I want to hear about it. Send me an email at laura.maclean@doppleronline.ca.

Home is where the heart is. And for 83-year-old Betty Fulton, her heart belongs in Huntsville.

She is having some mixed feelings right now about a big move to St. Catharines. Her husband, Ches, a charismatic 89-year-old who still has a whole lot of charm and wit, has been diagnosed with bladder cancer. In a month, he will face a radical cystectomy. His age certainly didn’t make him a prime candidate for the invasive five-hour surgery, but the doctor is willing to give it a try. Time is ticking and they want to get set up in their new living quarters at a retirement home before it happens.

“I just love everything about Huntsville,” Betty tells me. We’re talking on the phone and as soon as she says, “Hello,” I sense she’s pretty down. She admits she is. She’s been “utterly stressed” with all the packing. She had to take two days off to rest in bed. But a play at Chaffey Hall on Sunday afternoon lifted her spirits. It was just what she needed. She’s going to miss that about Huntsville. It has some great theatre productions.

The big move is only two days away. Luckily, her good friends Karen and Ken Hewitt, who she calls “invaluable,” have been helping the Fultons pack up their life from their Dairy Lane condo. Betty tells me more than once that she’s not happy about having to move.

“Ches seems excited,” she says. “But I’m not excited at all. This is my home.”

Two of their five kids (four boys and a girl; I’m still in awe) live in St. Catharines and have been pushing for them to move closer for about a year now. There will be more support for them after Ches has his surgery. He will be down for at least a month as he recovers.

Betty and Ches came to Huntsville 23 years ago and over the course of those years they’ve done some pretty remarkable and selfless things. They’ve generously donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to various organizations, initiatives and individuals.

They reached into their own pockets to provide more than a dozen high school students with $1,000 each to assist with the costs to further their education.

“One of our greatest joys was donating $25,000 to the Algonquin Theatre when it was being built,” says Betty. There’s a plaque inside the theatre bearing their names, and she is extremely humbled by the recognition.

Ches and Betty also donated $50,000 to the Hospital Foundation, $10,000 to Chrysalis and $25,000 to All Saints’ Anglican Church when it underwent a basement renovation. Back in 2011, when Hospice Huntsville was being constructed, they donated $10,000 to the facility and have continued to provide a $2,000 donation every year since then.

“Everything we’ve done has been given back to us in many ways,” says Betty. I’m thinking to myself, this better be something good. Jeez. They deserve a prestigious award. “It’s just been a wonderful community to live in. It’s our payback.” And she leaves it at that.

They have supported the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM) offering two $15,000 bursaries, one in their name and one in former town Councillor Fran Coleman’s name. Then the Fultons reached deeper into their pockets and generously donated an additional $10,000 to NOSM research.

You get so much closer to people in a small community. Betty Fulton

A few years ago, while attending a seniors’ lunch at Faith Baptist Church, the Fultons were moved and deeply inspired by what guest speaker James Hunt, director of Huntsville’s youth facility The Door, revealed about the program. Because he is responsible for raising 100 per cent of his salary, Ches and Betty both donated $1,000 to his salary and have continued to do so for the last three years.

If you can believe it, the list goes on.

Once again, proving their selfless and caring nature, the Fultons adopted a Bequian son named Amos during one of their many visits to St. Vincent and The Grenadines. When they were younger, Betty says, they wouldn’t have been able to. They didn’t have the financial means. But the way things worked out, and being fortunate enough to help people later in life, brings them so much joy.

They are not social butterflies by any means, but the Fultons have always enjoyed going to church and attending weekly seniors’ luncheons. While Ches always loved to golf and was a long-time member of the local curling club (that’s always been “his thing,” says Betty) she, however, is more of the stay-at-home type.

“Church has been my big thing,” she says. “We’ve made many friendships. You get so much closer to people in a small community.”

Karen and Ken Hewitt have been helping the Fulton's pack up their life from their condo for the last few weeks. Betty doesn't know what she would do without their helping hands.

Karen and Ken Hewitt have been helping the Fultons pack up their life from their condo. Betty doesn’t know what she would do without their helping hands.

The Fultons first got a taste for the Huntsville area when they honeymooned at Tally Ho Inn back in 1950. They originally came from St. Catharines which they called home for some 60 years, and now it’s somewhat bittersweet having to return. Adding to them being truly remarkable is the fact that they’ve been married for 65 years. Sure there’s been rough patches, says Betty, but never once did they want to give up.

And so it will be with heavy hearts this Saturday when the Fultons say goodbye. As much as Betty and Ches are going to miss it here, I don’t think Huntsville will be quite the same without them.

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26 Comments

  1. Mike Stevens says:

    Ches, Sorry to hear that you are moving to St.Catharines. I will miss our kidding each other and talks about the market at the golf club. Regarding
    your coming medical procedure, remember that 75 per cent of everything you worry about never happens. Thinking of you.
    Mike Stevens

  2. Betty and Ches; Darryl and I will miss you! I am delighted to have met you and we wish you the very best of blessings in the challenging times ahead. God Bless!

  3. Gail Orr says:

    I find it quite the coincidence that two days after signing up for Doppler’s newsletters I notice an article about Ches & Betty Fulton. The work of a higher power perhaps? Unfortunately, it is too late to give them a call and express my thanks to them for all the support they provided me and my family over the past years. So this forum will have to do. Their generosity enabled me to see my daughter play basketball in the national college playoffs in Alberta 10 years ago. A generous gift that will always bring tears to my eyes when I think of that opportunity. If you need an example of true Christianity look no further than this couple who have spread joy and happiness just by seeing their always smiling faces. Its been awhile since we’ve seen each other but believe me they have not left my thoughts. I wish with all my heart for Ches’s speedy recovery and as many more years together as you both desire.

  4. Brenda Chikoski says:

    Our dear friends! You will truly be missed in our community. We send you off, however you will always be a big part of this town and a part of our family. I know for sure the Huntsville air cadets will miss your smiling faces at our dinners and your warm hugs.
    You will be in my thoughts and prayers in the months to come.

  5. David Teasdale says:

    Dear Betty and Ches:

    Wow! What an article above and all the beautiful comments listed. Both of you are very special individuals each in your own unique way. I am so glad to be considered part of your friendship circle. My heart goes out to the wonderful friends who you leave behind in Huntsville and to the new friends and family and old friends who will be awaiting your arrival back in St. Catharine’s. I wish that I could have helped you pack to lessen the stress and burden that goes along with a move. I hope George and I can visit you in the near future at your new location. May God always surround you both with his great love and support. Wishing Ches a very successful surgery and a speedy recovery. As you drive away from Huntsville…remember all the fond memories and wonderful experiences and as you drive to St.Catharine’s think of all the positive experiences and blessings that await you there. Love always David Teasdale. Ches I hope you find a new employer and another job in St.Catharine’s . 🙂

  6. Paul Clayson says:

    Betty & Ches, just heard today that you were leaving this week-end. After knowing you for more than 20 years, it is hard to see you go. We wish you both the best, and look for a swift recovery for Ches. You will always be in our prayers.
    Beryl & Paul

  7. George Fulton says:

    At long last, I was favoured with meeting an unknown cousin, Chesley Fulton. As fate would have it, he and Betty, son, Clyde and his family, were guests at my Bed and Breakfast here in Bass River, Nova Scotia, a number of years ago. Ches and I share the same Great Grandfather, George Alexander Fulton. Ches came here to show his family where he was born on Portapique Mt on the outskirts of Bass River. The old homestead is gone but not the long winding lane and beautiful fields that he traversed daily to the little school house down the road. He was in fact, the janitor, and it was his job to get the fire going in the pot bellied stove to warm the building up for the soon to be arriving students. Life was not easy especially after losing his father at a young age due to illness. Belonging to a large family, his mother had to sell the farm and move closer to town. We’re talking 1930’s/40’s here and life was not easy for most people back then. But with determination and hard work and his military service, Ches moved on in life and with the help of his wife, Betty, moved on to great achievements in Ontario. On each returning visit to his hometown, I’d learn of the many hurdles and stories of his youth as we would visit familiar places related to his past. We’d always have to visit the cemetery on Portapique Mt where his father was buried and then travel the roads and likely end up at the Company Store where the family was able to buy most anything from groceries, feed for the animals, and hardware for repairs. I have a picture of Ches sitting on the “Liars Bench” talking to a young man of whom Ches would have know his grandparents. Travelling with Ches took time; have you noticed how quickly he engages people with conversation? Just ask Betty. There’s much more I could say but suffice to say my life has been the richer for getting to know him and his lovely wife, Betty. God has blessed them and in turn, they have been a tremendous blessing to so many people. I know how much they love Huntsville and the people there and they will be sorely missed. They have touched so many lives but the memories and the love will live on forever. God’s Blessings and Godspeed to you both in your new home.
    Signed: George Alexander Fulton (Bass River)

  8. Tom Kilmer says:

    Thank you Betty and Ches for the opportunity to be the owners of your special home you built on Rebecca Lake . Pam and I have loved the “cottage ” since 1993 when we bought it . We just retired there last year .

  9. Mark Hernen says:

    Betty makes the absolute best ginger snap cookies you could ever try.

  10. Cathy Greven says:

    Betty and Ches, we just read this lovely account of the many blessings you have been to so many in the Huntsville area and around the world. My parents Joy and Geoff Julian always enjoyed their chats with you, and my husband John still speaks of the beauty of the electrical installation you had done at your cottage. You developed a true admirer that day! We often met you at the Dwight beef dinner and always enjoyed your smiles and greetings. John and I will keep you in our hearts and prayers as you embark on this next life journey.

  11. (The Rev.) Mal and Ruth Binks says:

    Betty and Ches, the number and sincerity of the replies posted in such a short time is a great tribute to you both. Your presence at so many events, the number of people you either took to these events or encouraged to attend will be sorely missed. I will miss seeing (and being mistaken for) my “brother” here in Huntsville. However Ruth and I look forward to seeing you on our visits to our other home in St. Catharines! Blessings on a wonderful couple!

  12. Fran Coleman says:

    Betty and Ches,
    You both have been an integral part of the Huntsville community. We are truly blessed, your generosity has been enormous to so many worthy causes. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

    It has been a pleasure to watch how each of you are interested and caring about so many donations with a smile and enjoyment in giving to others.
    Thank you and God bless

  13. Sending love and blessings. We will look forward to visiting you in St. Catharines.
    Elizabeth and Ross

  14. Brian Fulton says:

    Mom and dad will sorely miss Huntsville, but on the upside there are many people here in St. Catharines who will welcome them back to St. Catharines and who will support them as their needs grow, including their children, and grandchildren, and even great grandchildren. Dad also has two brothers and their wives in St. Catharines who will be glad to see mom and dad return. It will be a real adjustment for mom and dad, but they are both very resilient, and we are all glad to have them back to their new and old home.

  15. Shelley Martin says:

    Betty and Ches, all the best on this next adventure . We were lucky to have you in our community, You will be missed. All the best for your recovery Ches. God Bless. Sincerely Shelley Martin

  16. Lisa Seheult says:

    You would be sadly missed from this town
    Thanks for being so very interested in me and my family.
    We wish you both Gods blessings, happiness, and the great humour that you both have
    I hope we’ll meet again one day
    Good luck to you Ches with your operation.
    And to you Betty with your new life.

    Lisa Seheult

  17. David and Heather Hockin says:

    Dear Ches and Betty,
    You both have been such an important part of our life. It is very hard to express properly our thanks and our best wishes for your future. Your generosity, when called upon , was more than anyone could ask. We will miss the bright hello and jokes at the golf course and the kind smiles, welcome suggestions, and assistance at church.
    Chester, you will do well in surgery, you are a great candidate since you are so positive and always look on the bright side.
    All the best and much love.

  18. Joanne Cunnington says:

    Betty and Ches
    We will truly miss you and all your kindnesses and generosity throughout our community. Thank you so much for being such a good friend and neighbour for so many years. Don’t worry, I will deliver some treats to St. Catharines and we look forward to visiting when Ches recovers from his surgery. Safe travels to St. Catharines. With love and prayers from your “Old” neighbour. Joanne

  19. Mary Spring says:

    Ches and Betty…we will miss you! You have been vital members of the Huntsville and Lake of Bays community for many years and we will not forget your generosity. In particular, you enriched my mother’s life in her later years and our family will always appreciate that. All the best to you both.
    Mary Spring

  20. Kathy Henderson says:

    Best of luck to you both! Every time I meet you both you are always smiling. This is a new segment of your life. Embrace it, change is always interesting. You will be missed but not forgotten.

  21. Traci McIlroy says:

    Wow what an incredible story about two incredible people. Ches and Betty, we are truly blessed to have you as a part of Huntsville. All the best on your journey and Huntsville will miss you.

  22. Much love, Ches and Betty. Your genuine interest and delight in me and my family over the last 16 years have warmed our hearts. Ches’ smile and positive nature often sweeps my clouds away, and Betty’s wit and humour crank up the sun.
    Blessings for this next chapter of your lives, Betty amd Ches. We will miss you.

  23. Richard Hogg says:

    Fran & I will always be grateful to Betty & Ches, who went out of their way to welcome & assist us, when we were camping & building our cottage near theirs on Rebecca Lake. Whenever they walked their dog by our place, they would stop by & assist with bits of advise & knowledge about the area. They were the kindest people on Rebecca Lake, always saying kind words & setting the gold standard that cottages admire. We wish the best to both of them. Richard & Fran Hogg

  24. Sandy Inkster says:

    Thank you for celebrating Betty and Ches! I have had the honour of becoming acquainted with them over the years. I have appreciated their support at my concerts (looking out into the audience while performing and seeing faces of encouragement), as well as receiving their advocacy and belief in the importance of programs in which I have been working. Ches and Betty demonstrated their support of early literacy by attending the fundraiser “Alphabet Soup”. I am grateful for that. I enjoy ‘running into’ them and getting caught up on their lives. I will miss that, will miss them. Thanks, Laura for bringing Betty and Ches to the community for a farewell. All the best Betty and Ches and happy healing Ches! Love Sandy

  25. Beth Wright says:

    We are so sorry to see you go away from Huntsville and we will miss you both very much.

  26. Esther Hannaford says:

    It was such a pleasure when you both came in for your appointments at Dr. Ogston’s office where I was the receptionist. You always had time for a little chat. You are two lovely people who will be sorely missed in Huntsville. I wish you well with your new endeavours in St. Catharines and I am sure Ches, that you will come through your upcoming surgery with flying colours.

    All the best,
    Esther Hannaford.