March 19, 1947 – May 25, 2014
With heavy hearts, the Keller family has lost their beautiful Barbara. Wife for 47 years and soul mate of Lutz, mother of Kurt (Arlana), Karen (Shawn Canning) and beloved Nana of Kailey and Koen Keller and Frederic Canning. She was sister to Bob (Myra, Kara, and Denise), Bryan (Jinirose, Christine, Robert), Betty Williams (Ken, Mark, Andrew, Jordan), Brent (Jennifer, Davis), Bonni Sprague (Chris, William, David) and Brenda Reder (Mark, Erin, Kirsten) and sister-in-law to Dagmar, Eva, Arno and Christel. She also leaves to grieve beloved friends, many of whom are in Calgary, AB, Glen Lakes, FL, and Victoria, BC.
Barb’s life was a joyful and adventurous one, always with her sweetie Lutz by her side. She was a certified fitness instructor who dedicated herself to athletic pursuits that included tennis, cycling trips, marathons, triathlons, and later on – golf. She was Ladies’ Club Champion in Glen Lakes ’05 and ’08 to ‘10. She was admired for her intelligence, sharp wit, and way with words. She continued to do the cryptic crossword very late into her illness – which won’t surprise anyone who knew her. Barbara was also known for baking outstanding pies.
While she will be remembered first and foremost for the vibrant and dynamic way she lived, Barbara also endured an unpredictable 2-year battle with cancer. As with the incredible athletic prowess that marked her life, Barbara amazed everyone with the toughness, grace and humility with which she coped during her illness.
By choice, Barb passed at home in Victoria with loved ones at her bedside. She is predeceased by her parents Nell and Robert (Bob), with whom she is now reunited.
Special thanks to Victoria Home Hospice home care and palliative teams, whose support was beyond measure. Kindness came from many, near and far, and it will never be forgotten.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s Parish (2060 Haultain St., Victoria) at 12:10 pm on Saturday, May 31, followed directly after by a reception at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, (1175 Beach Drive, Victoria) in the David Foster Theatre, commencing at 1:15.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Victoria Hospice at http://www.victoriahospice.org/. Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Bros. Funeral Home
39 Responses
We are truly blessed to have known Barb personally. Her friendliness and golfing ability will be missed. God bless Lutz for the loss of a true soul mate.
Lutz
Our deepest sympathy to you and the family. We have some terrific memories and look forward to sharing them with you again someday.
Our deepest sympathy to Lutz and all the family. We are fortunate to have known Barb and remember fondly the wonderful time we shared with her and Lutz at Kara and Jason’s wedding.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Grace and Ian Smith
Our thoughts are with you at this time.
Out thoughts are with you at this time. I will always have memories of Barb at the Winter Club fitness centre. Margaret
In your time of sorrow, we are keeping you and your loved ones in our prayers.
Lutz
You were truly blessed to have a special woman like Barb as your Wife. You two brought so much happiness to the lives of everyone you touched. Faye and I both will always remember the hospitality you shared with us when you invited us to your home in Calgary. May you find comfort knowing the support you have from all your friends.
Dale and Faye
Lutz and family’s our heart goes to you & yours at this very sad time.
sincerity Dave&Doris Wilkes
Please except our heartfelt sympathy for your loss. She was always a joy to be around when we visited Glen Lakes. We will keep you in our prayers.