Barbara Park

PARK: Barbara; On November 17th, 2021 Barbara Park (nee Moore) passed away peacefully at the age of 72, and in that instant our family lost a great matriarch. While she survived cancer, the ravages of treatment took a toll on her body. Barbara is reunited with her husband Thomas in heaven and is survived by her loving and devoted brothers Douglas and Patrick and their spouses Maureen and Barbara. “Auntie Barb” was more than an Auntie to her nieces Michelle (John David), Lisa (Aaron) and Kristina (Mark) and nephews Nathan (Kylee) and Jeffrey, and more than a Grantie to her grandnieces Mila, Olivia, Julia, Clementine, and Lucia, and grandnephews Benjamin, Charlie, Henry, and Ziggy-they were her source of pride and she loved them like they were her own children. A fiercely independent woman, Barb loved life, her dogs, high tea, being pampered and travelling. Barbara was the family historian and storyteller; she was the glue that kept the cousins, near and far, up to date and connected. She faced life’s hardships with grace and courage and always with laughter. She was generous with her time and love, and was beloved by so many friends. Barbara was born and raised in Hamilton, and attended Glendale high school. She began her working life at Aetna, then the Hamilton Board of Education, before moving to the WSIB where she retired after a 25 year career. Her colleagues and friends speak of her with fondness and affection, remembering her as kind, generous, caring, funny, witty, full of life and joy. Her social life was enviable, between her Breakfast Club girls, to her ladies investment club, the ladies she played cards with, the many dinners and pool parties spent with family and friends, her annual trip to Florida and her ladies shopping trips. When she fell ill, so many friends and family members came to her aid; sitting with her during treatment, driving her to appointments, coming to her help in the middle of the night-all done with deep love for a woman who brought so much joy and blessing to the lives of others. We will dearly miss our high teas together, our beloved Christmas stockings, her stories, her infectious laugh, and most of all, her unconditional love. Barbara had a large collection of angel figurines that she kept on display, but what she didn’t realize is that she was a living angel to so many. She leaves behind an enormous void in the lives of all of those she touched. And while we weren’t ready to say goodbye, we know she is now watching over us. Rest in peace Sister, Auntie, Grantie and dear friend. Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand. Barbara’s family will receive friends at MARKEY-DERMODY FUNERAL HOME, 1774 King Street East (at Kenilworth) on Monday, November 22, 2021 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Funeral Service to follow at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel. Interment at White Chapel Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations to the charity of your choice would be appreciated. For anyone unable to attend, there will be an option to view the funeral service live, by visiting Barbara’s service details on our website and clicking the “Live stream” link, at the time of the service. Proof of full vaccination, along with government issued ID, are mandatory to attend indoor funeral services for those age 12 and older. Masks are required.