Georgie H. Botte

Georgie H. Botte October 6, 1928 - February 7, 2016 SAN DIEGO Georgie Hearrell Botte, who over her 87 years was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, friend, and more, passed away on February 7th due to complications of Alzheimer's Disease. Georgie was born in Chetopa, Kansas and grew up in Hemet, CA. She moved to San Diego at the age of 17 to attend San Diego State College (now SDSU). Georgie graduated from SDSU in 1951 and embarked on an elementary school teaching career with San Diego city schools. While at SDSU she met Carmel Botte, the son of Italian immigrants, whom she married in 1954. They were married for more than 52 years before his passing in 2007. Georgie and Carmel had two children, Tonia (Toni) and Patrick (Pat), and two grandchildren, Andrew and Natalie. Georgie loved her large extended family and many friends. In college she joined Alpha Gamma Delta sorority and was an active alumna for most of her life. She was a member of University Christian Church for more than 60 years, at various times teaching Sunday School, becoming an Elder, and immersing herself in the social and charitable activities of the women's group. She enjoyed lasting friendships with her high school, college, church, teacher, and neighborhood friends, extending these throughout her life through walking groups, bridge clubs, lunch groups and other social events. Her friends were a central part of her life.Georgie's family included her three siblings living in the Pacific Northwest and their families, and Carmel's family in San Diego. She embraced the Italian heritage of the Botte family and enjoyed the many family gatherings with her brothers- and sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces. As an adult, she even took classes to learn to speak a little Italian. Her pride and joy were her two grandchildren whom she loved dearly. From the day they were born, she (and Carmel) had a constant and active presence in their lives.Georgie retired from teaching in 1983. She and Carmel enjoyed many years of active retirement with friends and family. They traveled to Mexico, Canada, Italy and elsewhere in Europe. Georgie also traveled with her two sisters to the Holy Land and to Panama with her sister-in-law. Georgie and Carmel also roamed throughout the US and Canada in their motorhome, often traveling with Georgie's brother and sisters and their spouses. And they loved many closer-to-home motorhome outings with their children, grandchildren and friends.Georgie is survived by her daughter, Toni Bates (Lee); her son, Pat Botte (Cathy); and her two grandchildren, Andrew and Natalie Bates. She is also survived by one sister and many of her dear brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews on both sides of the family. Georgie also leaves behind Ruth, her loving and devoted caregiver for the past five years who has become a part of her family. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 27 at 11:00am at University Christian Church, 3900 Cleveland Avenue, San Diego, 92103. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in Georgie's name to the University Christian Church Memorial Fund (address above); the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation Temple/Todd Memorial Scholarship Fund (benefiting SDSU chapter members), 8710 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46260; or Alzheimer's San Diego, 6632 Convoy Court, San Diego, CA 92111.