Obituary of Barbara Ann Ruth McEwen

BARBARA ANN RUTH McEWEN Her family sadly shares the news of Barbara's passing at her home in Toronto, on Monday, February 8, 2016. Barbara was a beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother and friend to many. She was born on September 23, 1928 in Waterloo, Ontario, the only child of Celia and Wilfrid L. Hilliard. She graduated from the University of Toronto (Victoria College) in 1950, and soon after set sail for France to take up a teaching position in St. Brieuc. On board ship she met John, who was taking up graduate studies in history in England, and their lifelong love began. They were married in 1953. Barbara and John lived in Ottawa and London, England before settling down in Winnipeg when John was offered a professorship at the University of Manitoba. Their two much loved children were born in Winnipeg: Alix in 1958 and Jamie in 1960. After the death of Barbara's father, they moved to Fonthill, Ontario to be closer to Celia. As John continued his academic career at Brock University, Barbara returned to her studies, taking an M.A. at the University of Toronto, and finishing up with her doctorate at the Université de Lille, France in 1982. She, too, became a faculty member at Brock, teaching French language and literature until her retirement. She and John had a wonderful life together, travelling, enjoying music and good friends, and working for their church. Barbara and John were delighted when Alix married John Coo in 1990, and Jamie married Carolyn Horsley in 1991. Grandchildren soon followed: Malcolm Coo in 1992, Colin McEwen in 1994, and Victoria Coo in 1996. Sadly, hard times were to come: John died soon after a cancer diagnosis in 1997, and Jamie likewise passed away from cancer in 2012. The two losses left Barbara bereft, but she continued on bravely. She moved to Toronto after John's death, and made new friends through her many cultural interests and her church involvement. Barbara was diagnosed with cancer several years ago, and showed exemplary spirit and courage in the ensuing time, until she finally found peace. In addition to her immediate family, Barbara leaves her godson Mark McGaw, cousins, nephews and nieces, and many loyal friends. A celebration of her life will take place in DEER PARK UNITED CHURCH, 26 Delisle Avenue on Saturday, February 13th at 1:30 p.m. with a reception to follow. Donations to Deer Park United or to the Canadian Cancer Society would be gratefully acknowledged. Condolences and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymilesnewbigging.com.