Tena Martha BARR

Lovingly supported by her family, Tena Martha Barr left this world to be with all her loved ones and God, as she would say. “Gram” passed away peacefully at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital on Friday, December 14th at the age of 79. She was born to parents Lavern and George Parnell in Medicine Hat, AB on April 17, 1939. Gram was a pretty tremendous woman. She led a life of hardships and wonder, but always, always stayed positive with her quirky ways. When her children were young, Gram instilled in them that family was first - and the more the merrier; family or not! Sometimes they lost their way with this lesson, but in the end always circled back to this lesson. Gram found her soulmate, Walter Barr, at a very young age. They were married on May 19, 1956. The only man she ever loved, Gram never lost her love for him - even though he left the physical world very long ago. She had been with only him and never wanted anyone else. They were amazing together and because of their example, taught their children how to love their own significant others; all believing in soulmates and treasuring their marriages. Gram had a passion for sewing. She dabbled in all types of things, but her passion was quilting. Gram could look at random colors and find the most amazing patterns and create masterpieces that continually brought amazement and awe of her gift. Gram’s talent was second-to-none, especially when it came to the drunken stitches! With every stitch, Gram put a little bit of her heart into it so when it was time to leave this world, she’d left her whole heart in the best way she knew how. Every quilt reflected Gram’s love for her family and lovingly shared her life stories. Gram’s family will miss talking to her on the phone or stopping by for visits. She will always be with them, but they will miss the things that we all take for granted while we have them. Rest in Peace, Gram. You will be missed! Tena is survived by her children: Eldon (Joann) Barr, Kim (Fred) Lancaster, and Wayne Barr; grandchildren: Levi (Wendy) Gravelle, Candace (Dave) Bradford, Trevor Barr, MacKenzie Barr, Kristina (Blain) Wilhelm, Ashly (Ryan) Bayrack, Brittany (Richard) Salekin, and Cody Lancaster; 12 great grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren and her brother Robert (Margaret) Parnell. She was predeceased by her parents, sister Bonnie Hutchinson, her husband Walter E. Barr, children Apryl Barr-Zmurchyk, Craig Allen Barr, twins James & Jonathan Barr, and her grandson Craig Allen Lancaster.

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