Marion Carol Watkins Barr

Marion Carol Barr was a modest woman, quiet and observant in her ways. She was trustworthy and traditional in her approach to her life and in her relationships. She was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew her. She was also a woman who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything she undertook. Marion loved to laugh, and had a great sense of humor which you could see in her eyes, they would twinkle with mischief and brought joy to those around her. Her greatest attribute was how big her heart was, always giving to others, she had so much love to give; especially for her children and grandchildren. At times putting there needs before her own.

She was the daughter of May and Vaughan Watkins. Marion grew up in Toronto and would later live in Comox, Cold Lake, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Trenton, Bagotville and Greenwood. In her heart, Toronto, was always home and was happy to come back and live the rest of her years there.

Marion was raised with one older sister, Joan. Marion was usually involved in all sorts of activities with her sister. She and her Joan experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.

As a young girl, Marion had a number of interests. Like most children, she enjoyed playing and making up games. She was curious about the world around her and was often eager to explore it. Marion was an active child who took part in swimming, bowling and figure skating. She was also a Girl Guide. In her spare time she liked to read. However, to Marion, the most fun to be had was simply playing and spending time with her friends.

A typical teenager, Marion had a fairly happy high school experience, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. She graduated from Earle Haige High School in 1951. She enjoyed some classes more than others, having favorite subjects and teachers. Her favorite class in high school was Art.

Always considered a “good” friend to those she knew, Marion enjoyed a broad group of acquaintances and several very close friends during her lifetime. Some of her best friends over the years were Ann and Dave Crossman, Gloria Spencer, Helen and Ray Francis, Nikki, Peter Gaudet, Ivy Cook, and Eunice Chinnery.

Marion worked hard to be a good mother to her children and she did her best to fulfill their needs. Marion was blessed with Four children, Three sons, Russell, Allan, and Michael Eric, and one daughter, Kristilee Rhaean. Another blessing for Marion was the gift of Eight grandchildren, Lara, Ethan, Madeline, Karey, Renae, Mandy, Ryan, and Adam.

Fortunately, Marion enjoyed what she did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Marion worked diligently and did her best to succeed in her career. Her primary occupation was a homemaker but also worked as a sales clerk. Marion always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.

Marion enjoyed her leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. Her favorite pursuits were Decoupage, Knitting, playing cards and games like sorry and trouble, painting, bowling, figure skating, and reading Danielle Steel novels. Marion also had a love for children and would babysit for many families over the years and take in these children and love them as if they were her own. She was content to enjoy her favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share her interests with others.

Marion found pleasure in sports. In high school, Marion participated in swimming and Figure Skating. Recreational sports included Volunteering as a figure skating coach, and she was on a bowling league. Marion was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed following her favorite events whenever she had the chance to do so. Top on her list were figure skating.

Throughout her life, Marion was a doer and was always actively involved in professional and community organizations. Throughout her later years, Marion was an active member of the Greenwood figure skating club.

Marion’s faith was important to her. She was a member of the Peoples church for many years. During that time, she was a part of the Peoples church seniors group and met many dear friends that she spoke of often, and fondly to her family.

Marion enjoyed traveling and time away on vacations. It was a chance for her to renew and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Favorite vacations included going to Disney world with her family in 1990, and always coming to visit her family in Toronto when she lived in Nova Scotia.

Marion was a lover of animals and cherished her pets. One of her favorites was Tippy Toes Barr I, a cat. They were best friends for 23 years. Her family was rounded out by her other cat, miss kitty.

Marion passed away on October 8, 2010 at Sunnybrook Hospital, Toronto. Marion fought till the end against a Liver disease. She is survived by her children Russ, Michael, Allan and Kristi; her grandchildren Lara, Ethan, Madeline, Karey, Renae, Mandy, Ryan and Adam. Services were held at Trull Funeral Home & Cremation Centre. Marion was laid to rest in York Cemetery in Toronto, Ontario.

Simply stated, Marion was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by her family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Marion leaves behind her a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life she touched will always remember Marion Carol Barr.