Barbara Helen (Hanes) Birtch

It is with great sadness that we announce that Barbara Helen Birtch  (just 6 days short of her 85th birthday), of Huntsville passed away suddenly on June 28, 2021 after a brief illness.  Barbara is predeceased by her parents Edith Blundell and Donald Hanes of Huntsville.  She is survived by her children; Ken (Line),  Lori (Tim Bennison),  Dawn Michelle (Dennis Sylvia),  Sean (Janet),  Shari (Ron Churchill),  Chris (Angela),  Tim (Margaret) as well as 17 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Barbara who graduated from teachers college taught for one year at Huntsville Public School before raising her family.  Upon, her return to Huntsville in 1989 she became an active member of the community working as Director of Music at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church as organist and  choir director.  She also taught piano and vocal lessons to young and old alike in the community.  She was  active in various other musical endeavours, including the singing group the Step Sisters and the Huntsville Community Choir.

Mom was a passionate musician, writing and arranging various pieces of music for her various interests.  She loved architecture, painting, playing cards, watching movies, cheering on her Toronto Blue Jays, and the occasional glass of Sherry.  When she wasn’t filling her home with warmth and kindness, she could be found at her piano practicing and playing for her own enjoyment.

We will miss her greatly.

We would like to thank Audrey McGillivray and the staff at Country Moments Retirement Home for mom's care over the past 3 plus years particularly in these Covid times.

Cremation has taken place.

As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation, or the Alzheimer's Society of Huntsville.  Interment and a Celebration of Life to take place once Covid restrictions allow large gatherings.