It is with profound sadness that we annonce the peaceful passing of our Mother (93) at the Algoma Manor on April 29, 2018. She will meet Alex (92), John (65) and Jamie (18mo). She will be greatly missed by Rod ( Dorothy), Melinda (Rick) , Billy (Maureen) and Marjory(Rene) and her 12 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. We would like to thank the staff in the Spruce Wing of the Algoma Manor, Thessalon for their unwavering compassion and professional help. We would also like to thank Joyce, Karen and Mary or your friendship and camaraderie. Barbara worked very hard for her family, friends, at her job, for her church and community. She was president of our local May Court Club and National president for 1961 and 1962. Other volunteer interests included: Chair of the Community Council Registry, which started the first Christmas Cheer for 110 families. President of the March of Dimes (Rehabilitation Foundation). Campaign Chair of the restoration of the Old Stone House. Member of the Economic Council of Ontario and a member of the Women's Advisory Committee of Ontario. She was also a member of the Public Memorial Hospital Board of Directors for 17 years and served as President for 2 terms, She was very happy to receive the Citizenship Award from the former Mayor Alex Harry for "volunteer of the year". Even with her busy schedule, she never appeared harried or hurried. When you were talking to her, she always made you feel there was no one else in the room. "She offered us her undivided attention. She let us feel that we counted, that she cared about us and loved us". A verse from George Eliot's poem COUNT THE DAY beautifully describes the encouragement that she gave to the people in her life.
If you sit down at the set of sun
And count the acts that you have done
And counting find
One self-denying deed, one word
That eased the heart of him who heard
One glance most kind
That fell like sunshine where it went,
Then you may count that day well spent.
A private family gathering will be held. In lieu of donations; “when you think of me please consider doing an act of kindness for someone". Arrangements entrusted to Menard Funeral Home, Blind River, Ontario.
