Angel Lady - so very sorry to hear about your loss. I did several betta rescues last year, and out of about 12 fish, only 4 are still alive. This was despite ideal care, perfect water conditions, good diets, and spacious enclosures. I think that many VT bettas in stores are aged, poorly bred, and have hampered immune systems. In fact, one store employee of a PSP store admitted that they get thier bettas from a VT breeder who sends all of his "spent" breeding fish to them at a discount, so many are allready at least a year or more old. All of my boys had the added stress of recovering from severe illness, as all of the fish I purchased were dying (part of a "hospice" effort) and somehow pulled through against all odds. The eldest two were only with me a year when they died. So I understand your frustration with chain stores and Wallmart; they sell unhealthy, poorly cared for animals, that people like us then grow attached to and are devastated by the loss of.
I, like you, am done saving bettas; even though my fish were all refunded the day after purchase (despite the fact they they lived... heheh), I didn't like the fact that every fish I took home was simply replaced by another at the store; from now on, I am buying only from reputable breeders.
It sounds like your boy had a very good life with you; I'm sure that even if he was short lived, he had the best life he could possibly have. I hope your other fish enjoys his new tank, and your future bettas live long, healthy lives.
my little fellow 
