Barbara Ann Rattew

8 JANUARY 1935 – 2 JUNE 2023

Barbara Ann Rattew (Newcomb) passed away peacefully at Peter D. Clark Long Term Care Home in Ottawa, Ontario, on June 2, 2023. She was 88.

Barbara was a loving mother to Vicki, Cindy (Marty) and Sue. She was a doting Nana to Danielle (Mat), Michael (Vero), Scott (Liz), Jeffrey (Aimee) and Kevin (Julia). She was a proud Great Nana to Maximilian, Sebastien and Theodore. She was a fond sister to Bobby (Bernice) and Roland (Valerie). Barb was predeceased by her parents Frank and Estella, her siblings George, Rowena, and Laurie, and her grandson, Eric.

Barbara loved dancing to her music, and cooking for and entertaining her family and friends. As a military wife, she had an interesting life, and travelled widely throughout Canada, the US, the UK and Europe. She was a wizard at making new houses into homes for her family when they moved to a new posting every few years.

Barbara had a friendly, outgoing nature. She loved talking and joking with people. She was free with her compliments, including to complete strangers, especially on their outfits and hairstyles. Those who knew her say that she was a “real character”. She had a special place in her heart for dogs and small children, and these always brought her profound joy. She will be missed.

Barbara’s family wishes to thank the staff of Peter D. Clark, in particular those of Elm House, for their compassionate care.

In keeping with Barbara’s wishes, cremation will have already taken place. A Celebration of Life service will be held at McEvoy-Shields Funeral home (1411 Hunt Club Rd. Ottawa, 613-737-7900) on Friday June 9, 2023 at 4 p.m., with a reception to follow. For those unable to attend, a live-stream of the service is available at https://funeraweb.tv/en/diffusions/75300.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Barbara’s name to Arthritis Society of Canada.