Barbara Ann de Balinhard

We lost our beloved Barbara Ann on May 3, 2026. She spent her 82 years, six months, and eight days devoted to family. She was a loving daughter to Harold and Eleanor Toplis. Even with the separation of geography, Barbara remained very close to her fraternal twin, Bob Toplis (Louise), and sister Jean Meronek (Bill). Brothers Bruce (Pat) Stewart and Neil (Glenda) Stewart predeceased her.

For 57 years, she and her husband, Edward (Ted), who predeceased her in 2021, were inseparable companions. Together, they shared all life’s challenges and rewards. They are now reunited. Barbara blessed son Robert and daughter Jennifer (John Alcos) with the best mother they could have ever hoped for and a lifetime of memories. Barbara and Ted dearly loved their grandchildren, Ava and Parker. In later years, Barbara watched them grow into fine young adults and followed their achievements with great pride and pleasure. Ava and Parker will live their lives in the knowledge that she continues to do so.

Barbara was proud of her Northern roots, from her earliest years in Upper Fraser to her formative years when she and brother Bob were boarded students at the “Dorm” in Prince George. And it was also in Prince George where, not long out of high school, she met Ted, an RCMP constable, himself fresh from Depot. They were married in Prince George on June 20, 1964.

In the ensuing years, Barbara and Ted’s life together took them to remote postings in the Western Arctic, to the Yukon, and to other locations in “E” Division. Their final RCMP posting saw them return to Prince George, where Barbara was able to help care for her aging parents. Barbara and Ted eventually settled in the Lower Mainland, first Port Moody and then Coquitlam, to be close to family, their grandchildren most of all. Wherever they went, and however challenging the conditions, Barbara made it feel like home. She was never nostalgic for what was, she always lived in the present. In retirement, some of her happiest memories were of family trips to Hawaii. Her family will cherish those trips forever.

Barbara had a keen sense of humour and dry wit that she could employ at unsuspecting moments. Her optimism towards life and curiosity about the world never faltered. She had an innate goodness and warmth that people instantly recognised when they met her. To her family, she was Love. She will be missed for all time.

In accordance with Barbara’s wishes, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Heart and Stroke Foundation (www.heartandstroke.ca), or to a worthy charity of your choice, in remembrance of Barbara.

“Our Love of Family Shall Be Eternal”