Barbara left this world on Saturday, February 4th at the age of 92 in the loving hands of the staff at Margaret’s Place Hospice as the result of kidney failure. Leaving behind decades of memories for all who knew her, Barbara was a shining light of kindness, decorum to a fault and elegance. Born in Bognor Regis, Sussex, England the youngest of five girls, Mum spent her early years working for her father’s many different businesses. Once married to Robert (Bob), Mum and Dad immigrated to Canada and never looked back. Their mutual love of dancing had them keep a social calendar busier than their teenage children’s! Her return to work life consisted of a job at Eaton’s and eventually working as a physiotherapy aide. Known for her many talents, Barbara took joy from and excelled at cooking the most elaborate and delicious dinners, baking the most wonderful desserts, sewing the best fitting and beautiful clothing, and visual arts and crafts too various to mention. Mum was known for giving anything a try and then doing it exceptionally well. An animal lover, Mum never met a dog or cat she didn’t like. Her years after Bob passed were restructured with volunteering for the sewing committee at Westfield Heritage Village where she recreated period costumes from 1755 through to 1925. She was the organizer of period costume fashion shows in which she participated for years. Missing her every day will be her children William Bates (Janice) and Diane Dodds, her four grandkids Amanda (Andrew), Colin, Nicola and Lauren, her loving niece Jill Kleinsteuber (Maurice) and nephew Michael Beavis. Known to many, she will be missed by all. Friends will be received by the family on Sunday, February 12th from 12:00 p.m. until the time of Barbara’s Service at 1:00 p.m. at Turner Family Funeral Home, 53 Main Street, Dundas. In accordance with Mum’s wishes, cremation has already taken place. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Westfield Heritage Village, Margaret’s Place Hospice or a charity close to your heart.
905-628-6412
info@turnerfh.ca
Dear Diane and family,
I am very sorry for your loss. Thinking of you during this difficult time. May you find comfort from your memories.
Your friend ,
Julia
A very beautiful woman inside and out. Spent some interesting nights with her at Linda’s . Will miss her.
Debbie Hedger
I first met Barbara through the sewing committee at Westfield Heritage Village. She was an incredibly talented volunteer who designed, sewed and custom fitted costumes for the hundreds of fellow volunteers in the pioneer village—-everything from ballgowns to peasant outfits. Eventually she had made so many wonderful outfits that she started giving fashion shows both in the village and at retirement homes , other museums and parks. Her enthusiasm and energy was boundless.Oh how we will miss you Barbara.
Barbara is a respected and important part of the Westfield team. She will be sincerely missed but always remembered. The period clothing, including her amazing hats, will be a part of her legacy. Barbara’s grace and kindness are treasured gifts we were luck to have. Our condolences to her family and friends.
I will always consider Barbara as Westfield Royalty. Her elegance, grace and kindness set her above all else. I first made her acquaintance when she asked if I would try on an outfit that she had created. It was a perfect fit to which she proceeded to ask if I would like to take part in the Fashion Show Outreach Program. It was such an honour. Words can not begin to express how much she will be missed. My deepest condolences to her family and friends.
Barbara will always hold a place in my heart. She was a joy to know and will be a pleasure to remember. I got to know her later in her life and she was such a lovely addition to our Westfield fashion shows. I hope she knows how much she was appreciated for her hard work and dedication. Sending my heartfelt condolences to her family. Rest in peace, Barbara.