Barbara Winifred Olley

Barbara Winifred 0lley passed away peacefully, supported by loved ones, during the early morning of March 6, 2024, at Amica in White Rock, BC, after a short battle with cancer. She was 87 years old.

Born in Trail, BC, to Ellen and Douglas Ridge, Barbara spent most of her life in West Vancouver and Sicamous, where she and her late husband Peter had built their dream home overlooking Mara Lake.

Barbara pursued higher education and found her calling as a teacher, imparting knowledge to grade school students. She also ventured into the culinary world, starting a small catering business while her children were growing up. Cooking, developing recipes, and savoring her creations were among her passions.

Travel was another love of Barbara's. She and Peter embraced every opportunity to explore the world. They took advantage of sabbaticals, traveling to most countries in Europe in a camper pulled by a VW Rabbit. Barbara and Peter didn't hesitate taking their children out of school for these adventures, educating them on the road and showing them what the world has to offer. They also ventured to the Caribbean, Russia, Turkey, and enjoyed memorable safaris in Africa.

A true snowbird, oftentimes travelling by motorhome. Barbara and Peter spent most winters between Mexico and Arizona where they forged lasting friendships. She and Peter were always accompanied by their beloved dogs, faithful companions throughout their lives.

Barbara was known for her incredible strength of spirit, especially during the latter 17 years when she selflessly cared for her husband. Her sharp memory remained intact until the end, allowing her to recall past events in vivid detail. She had a great sense of humor, loved to laugh and share her many colourfull stories.

Barbara's booming voice always championed fairness and justice for all. Her presence was larger than life, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she met. She celebrated a life filled with beautiful, loving friendships starting in grade school and every place that she spent time from Vancouver, Sicamous, Apache Junction, White Rock and even Oakville. Ontario. She loved her social network which reflected in her generous and benevolent nature.

Barbara is preceded in death by her husband Peter and is survived by her daughter Samantha. her son Gavin, and her grandchildren Katy, Megan. Matheus. and Maximillian, as well as her Auntie Merla and many special cousins in BC. The family would like to thank the amazing staff at Amica in White Rock for their incredible support and love when they cared for Barbara, it truly made a difference.