Barb and I were great friends. We first met when we were both in Mexico for an extended winter visit more than 20 years ago. We returned year after year, staying in a small town on the Pacific coast. My husband Brian and I went on many adventures with Barb and her wonderful husband Rick. Several times during the winter, we would make our way up the highway to go snorkelling at a small bay which contained rare black coral. We enjoyed seeking out which thatched roof, sand floor, open air beach restaurant had the most delicious searoll in the tiny village in that same bay.

A favourite day trip was taking a local bus to a neighbouring small town and then a boat across the wide lagoon to another little village with a handful of delightful waterside seafood restaurants and enjoying a nice leisurely lunch there, before taking a boat back again. Barb always enjoyed the boat ride just as much as she enjoyed the lunch.

The four of us once rode the bus 6 hours to Guadalajara, where we spent a few nights together in a quirky little hotel in the centre of town. We had a lot of fun exploring the city.

When we were together there was always lots of laughter. Of course we had some serious discussions as well, and we often traded books, as we were both avid readers.

Sometimes we would see each other in Canada, although not very often as we lived 2000km. apart.

Brian and I will both miss her cheery smile, her gentle ways, her witty comments and her contagious laughter. She was a lovely person, with a heart of gold. Rest in peace dear friend.

My deepest condolences to you Shelley. You look so much like your Mom and from her description I am sure you carry much of her personality with you so she has no doubt left a wonderful legacy. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family at this time.

Rhonda Smith

Friend and Co-Worker

Our cousin Barbie was so very special and as children we visited our girl cousins on many many occasions and such fun to enjoy her splendid wit and free spirit. She particularly liked visiting grandpa's farm and riding Nellie the ol' gray mare. Talented artist, musician and commediene she will be dearly missed.

Thinking of Rick and his amazing love and faithfulness and all her family.

Bob and Carole Uptigrove

As long as I can remember, Barbie was a going concern whenever our extended families got together. Fun loving and boisterous whether playing football with her "boy cousins", giving violin recitals with her father Bill or laying down paint when creating her beautiful canvases. Illness and distance have restricted our direct contact since the last family picnic, but such wonderful memories.

Condolences and peace to Rick and family.

Cousins Paul and Dianne