Barbara Ann Velthuis

Barbara Ann Velthuis (nee Gallagher) was born in Vancouver to Donald and Eileen (a.k.a., Betty). Predeceased by her parents and her brothers William and Owen, she is survived by brother Ian; father of her children Ken; daughters Antonia (Carl) and Eileen (Jascha) Espley; as well as grandsons Ben and Zach.

She grew up a proud East Vancouverite and attended Templeton Secondary, where she daydreamed about The Beatles and George Harrison (she once wrote a letter to George’s mother and received a reply, prized forevermore)! Barbara earned scholarships and went to Simon Fraser University. She took on a mostly French-teaching career in public and Catholic schools, most notably in the Comox Valley where she spent 25 years energetically spearheading school, community and church activities before returning to her hometown of Vancouver.

Barb enjoyed singing with her choirs, was an eager student of piano and later harp, and spent time pursuing all kinds of learning (floral arrangements, anyone)? She was always reading books and French magazines. Friends say she was smart as a whip with a good sense of humour (thankfully, because she could be awfully chatty).

Her daughters will remember her fondness for making holidays special, and the sound of the Coronation Street theme song in the background.

May you rest in peace, Mum.

A celebration of life will be held May 21 at 1pm at Vancouver Memorial Services, 5505 Fraser St.