Barbara "Jean" Matthams

Jean was predeceased by her father (Roland Matthams), mother (Nellie Matthams) and sister (Helen Bergh) and is fondly remembered by her nephew Barry Bergh (Tricia Martin) and nieces Barbara Bergh and Nancy Bergh (Bill Bishop) as well as Helen’s husband George Bergh, Maureen Bergh, her great-nieces and nephews Jennifer (Paolo), Graeme (Esther), Carl, Tara and Leah and great-great nieces and nephews (Gabriella, Mia, Alex, James and Brinley).

Jean was born in Winnipeg where she resided all her life. Jean attended University where she obtained an Arts Degree. She went on to work as a librarian for the Winnipeg Public Library for several years and then joined United Grain Growers where she enjoyed a long and successful career as Executive Secretary to the President until her retirement.

Jean will be remembered not only for her wit, intelligence, openness, kindness to all and warmth, but also for her incredible sense of humour.

Never one to be caught up in materialism, Jean enjoyed the more simple things in life including family, friends, time spent at the family cottage at Caddy Lake, baking, reading and enjoying good food.

Possessed with a sweet tooth, Jean was known to have been able to eat an entire box of chocolates in one sitting and did this many times.

Jean was savvy and was always up on current affairs and the stock market. Not one to be caught unawares, Jean once played along with a telephone fraudster who called begging for money to get her supposed nephew out of jail. The call ended when the fraudster finally gave up. She also kept abreast of social trends; not long ago she “twerked” for her family completely unannounced to our great delight.

The family would like to thank Dr. Wess, nurses Kim, Gabi and the rest of the team on Ward 4A South at St. Boniface Hospital for their professionalism and kindness and for treating Jean with such respect and compassion.

It is impossible to sum up what a wonderful person Jean was in a few short words. Forever in our hearts. Mucho love!

There will not be a funeral as per Jean’s request. No flowers please; donations may be made to Siloam Mission.

Jean's positive influence on our lives has been immeasurable.