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Thorne, Barbara Joan

Barb passed away peacefully March 30, 2011 at the age of 78.

She will be sadly missed by her daughters, Sandra Lawrence, Janet Kemp (Alan); her beloved grandchildren: David Lawrence, Elizabeth Lawrence, Kate Beddows; and her great-grandchildren, Ally Point, Parker and Sophie Lawrence.

Barb was born in Jasper, Alta., moved to Victoria at an early age and then moved to Athabasca, Alta., after her father passed away. Barb married Harold Ashacker and taught English for over 20 years in Athabasca. She was a favourite teacher of many, and former students still contact the family to ask after her.

Barb and her daughters moved to Nanaimo in 1973 when she married Al Vance, who passed away in 1997. Barb was diagnosed with an aneurysm in her brain stem in 1999, and she far surpassed any doctor’s expectation as to how long she would live. Barb suffered many setbacks following the aneurysm, but never once did she give up, complain or ask “why me”. She accepted life as it was given to her and was an inspiration to many.

The family would like to thank the kind and devoted staff at Dufferin for making her time there comfortable.

There will be no service and if anyone wishes, donations may be made, in her name, to the Canadian Diabetes Association or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

First Memorial Funeral Services

(250)754-8333



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