It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Barbara, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother on June 15, 2018 at Concordia Hospital following a short illness.

 

Barbara is lovingly remembered by her husband Edward; daughters Aynslee (Tom), and Keri (Adrian); son Ryan (Nikki), nine grandchildren (Kailiegh, Donovin, Isaac, Leah, Aiden, Kaiya, Payton, Lucas, and Ava) and one great-grandson (Nathaniel); sister Brenda (Rick); brothers Wayne (Pauline) and Eric (Sherril); and many family and friends.

 

Barbara was predeceased by her mother and father, Ed and Jessie Matthes and her in-laws John and Christine Arthur. She has many angels waiting for her at the gates of heaven.

 

Barbara was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She had fond memories growing up in Elmwood and later Norwood. She married her husband of forty-three years in 1975 and together they started a family. This family grew over the years, including many foster children. Barb and Ed lived in the Fort Rouge area for many years where she was an active member of the Lord Roberts Community Centre and The Fort Rouge Legion Bowling League.

 

Barb always loved the children in her care as if they were her own. She had a big heart, a kind soul and was a loyal friend. Mom often acted like a second Mom to her children’s friends and positively influenced many lives. She held a special place in her heart for her niece, Shannon. Thank you Shannon for your unwavering support.

 

Mom loved cooking, baking, and spoiling her grandchildren - especially at Christmas, where she always had her shopping done early. She cherished her summers at Wildwood Trailer Park in Winnipeg Beach. She spent a lot of time with her mother Jessie there doing things together like playing bingo, driving to Gimli, and entering cribbage tournaments.

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We would like to thank the amazing staff at Concordia Hospital. They helped to guide us through this difficult time and gave such dedicated, compassionate care to mom in her final days. We would also like to give special thanks to mom’s health care aide at St. Boniface Hospital, Isaac, or as she always called him, “Quincy”.

 

“Let the tears come rolling from your heart.

And when you need a light in the lonely nights.

Carry me like a fire in your heart.”

 

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be held later. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Canadian Liver Foundation.