August 4, 1928 - May 9, 2025
In loving memory ~
It is with deep sadness that Betty's family announces her passing on May 9, 2025.
Betty lived life fiercely and on her own terms. Born in Salinas, California, she lived in several U.S. states before emigrating to Canada with her family in opposition to the Vietnam War. A lifelong political activist, Betty challenged the status quo on many fronts and gained international recognition for her opposition to old-growth logging, including acts of civil disobedience that led to several prison terms.
She was a deep thinker and prolific writer, authoring several books and a blog of many years that blended memoir, political critique, and calls to action. Her writing was as fearless as her activism—confronting not only corporations and governments, but also complacency she saw within progressive circles.
She believed aging was no excuse for silence, stating "We elders have a duty to speak out when we see injustice".
Betty was independent, strong-willed, and determined, yet quick to laugh and always ready to celebrate life. Her legacy is immeasurable—not only to her family, but to the many friends, fellow activists, and motley comrades she gathered across political and generational divides.
She was predeceased by her son Joseph Cuchiara Jr., and daughter Barbara Camp. She is survived by her sons Michael and Andrew Camp (Ontario), and her daughters Susan Camp, Margaret Phalen, and Rose Mary Roth (British Columbia), and Marian Krawczyk (Scotland).