HARTNETT, Barbara (nee Wright)

Passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at Juravinski Hospital, Hamilton, on Saturday March 12, 2016 at the age of 67. Beloved wife of 46 years to Jere, loving mother to Catherine (Jim), Mary, and Michael (Melissa), caring grandmother to Maeve, Ryan, Leah, and Chloe, and loving sister to Mary Sue and Penny. Barbara will be missed by Teresa and Ray Lynch, Anna Marie and Tom Jones, Loretta Sammit and her many nieces, nephews and cousins. Barbara’s love of children shone as an elementary school teacher for 2 years in Peterborough, and for 17 years in Burlington and Oakville. Her dedication to teaching made a difference in many children’s lives. Barbara’s strong faith was demonstrated with her involvement at St. Patrick’s Parish teaching Liturgy of the Word, the CWL, singing in the choir, visiting the sick and helping those in need. As a volunteer at Wellwood for 15 years, Barbara was cherished by many of the staff and clients for her humour which uplifted them. She inspired hope, leading by example to show that a diagnosis does not determine your fate. Barbara was referred to as a miracle by many. Barbara was instrumental in helping to create, and participate in a team of “Square Ladies”, whose ongoing efforts have made thousands of knitted afghan quilts for cancer patients. Her kind and gentle spirit could also be seen through the love and care she gave to her beloved pets. Barbara’s focus was on things that mattered in life: laughter, love and empowering others to see their own strengths within themselves. The family offers a special thank you to Dr. Tozer and Dr. Gudelis of the Juravinski Cancer Centre, Jane George of the Wellwood Centre, and the nursing team at Juravinski Hospital for all of their support. Visitation will be held at SMITH’S FUNERAL HOME, 1167 Guelph Line, Burlington, on Tuesday March 15, 2016 from 7-9pm, and on Wednesday March 16, 2016 from 3-5pm and 7-9pm, with vigil prayers on Wednesday at 8:00pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church in Burlington on Thursday, March 17, 2016 at 10:30am with reception to follow. Interment at Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, Burlington. Donations in Barbara’s memory to Wellwood Centre, Hamilton, Canadian Cancer Society, or a charity of your choice would be sincerely appreciated by the family.