It is with sad hearts that we must announce the passing of our dear mother on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at the age of 85. Marilyn is survived by her husband Bob Barlow; her three daughters Lori (Ron), Wendy (Brad), Heidi (Tom) and her beloved seven grandchildren; Derrick (Ksenia), Hillary (Chris), Hailey (Justin), Madeline, Ava, Wesley, Ellisa (Robin) and her two great grandchildren; Casey and Hadley. She is also survived by her cherished siblings; Gloria (Bill), Dee Dee (Chuck) and Alan. Marilyn was predeceased by her parents Dr. Ralph and
Anna Mutrie.
Marilyn and her husband Bob lived life to the fullest, always up for adventures (they lived in nine cities in North America). Marilyn quickly adapted to each new environment and embraced each community. They celebrated their 65th anniversary last May with a beautiful dance to their wedding song “Yellowbird” in their back yard in Cordova Bay, surrounded by family.
Marilyn was an incredible mother to her three daughters, raising us to be strong and confident women. We rejoice around her chocolate cake, lasagna, banana bread recipes that will be passed down generations and the fact you still had all our childhood toys at your house, your skating art and figurines. We will miss seeing the shocked faces when you do “the splits” at family parties.
Marilyn was a very loving grandmother, all her grandchildren have very fond memories of spending time at Grandma’s house where she made each and everyone of them feel very special and loved. All the grandchildren especially loved playing with grandma’s dolls, elegant tea parties with egg sandwiches and dressing up in clothes from her costume box!
Marilyn was a positive role model and inspiration to others, giving freely of her time, knowledge and energy to further the development of young skaters, coaches and volunteers in the sport of Figure Skating. In 2017, Marilyn received the penultimate recognition being named as an Honorary Life Member of Skate Canada.
Marilyn is remembered as a very joyful, caring person that was empathetic to others and always available to support anyone she felt needed a helping hand.
The family will be celebrating her life with her immediate family in North Bay, Ontario on May 11th weekend in conjunction with her being honored by the North Bay Sports Hall of Fame. https://www.nugget.ca/news/marilyn-barlow-mutrie-to-receive-peter-palangio-memorial-award
We would like to acknowledge and thank the team at Sidney Care for their incredible care and support of our mom.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
23 Responses
My condolences to Bob and family on Marilyn’s passing. I had the pleasure of having Marilyn as a patient for many years . She was a warm, kind, delightful ,caring person. She was a great wife to Bob and a wonderful mother to her children and grandchildren . She will be missed.
Affectionately,
Dr. Dave Stevens
It’s been a while Bob and Wendy but I do fondly remember all of you. Condolences and remember the good times as there will many to choose from.
I’m so sorry to hear of Marilyn’s passing. I knew Marilyn through our shared world of skating. I was coaching in Victoria when Marilyn and Bob moved to Victoria. Marilyn was such a lovely woman….her smile and her genuine kindness will always be the first thing that comes to my mind when I think of her. She was so proud of her children. The skating world has lost a gem. My sincere condolences to Bob and family.
Marilyn Barlow was a lovely person to know and have as a neighbour. To us, she was “Heidi’s Mom” with a warm and smiley demeanor, so we are sad for our friend Heidi, Marilyn’s husband Bob, and all the many family members. We know how much she will be missed as we know how close your family has been. May memories of Marilyn keep you smiling. Rob and Brenda Taggart
We are saddened to hear that your mum passed away , know that we are thinking of you .
Warmest regards.
Noreen and Glen
I am sorry to hear of Marilyn’s passing. I have good memories of her and I skating together as a pair in competitions. She will be missed.
Mrs. Barlow, how I referred to her right into my middle-age years, was someone I always looked up to and deeply respected. Although she wasn’t my immediate coach, I knew as a young skater I could always rely on her or ask her anything – she was so kind. I have fond memories of many conversations with Mrs. Barlow in particular when my husband and I visited with her and Bob in their basement, also known as Bob’s shrine. Thank you, Mrs. Barlow for having a positive impact on my life. You will be missed.
So sorry for your loss. I remember Marilyn back in the 80’s at the Juan de Fuca arena where my girls skated. She always had a big smile on her face. Always very friendly. RIP Marilyn.
Our condolences to Bob and family for the loss of wife and mother We are happy to be present in North Bay for Marilyn,s skating achievements. Ron and Gerry Leslie
I am so glad I was able to visit your lovely home in Cordova Bay with your sister and my best friend Gloria, just 7 years ago. I was fortunate to see Marilyn do the splits in her living room and I was stunned. She sure was agile to say the least. I will treasure that trip and her recipes I have one that she gave me. Your spirit and love will live on in your family and with all those you have touched. You have left a wonderful legacy and we will meet again.