Barbara Jane Stankiewicz was born on July 3, 1934 in Revelstoke BC and pasted away in her sleep on March 11, 2021 at Gemstone Care Centre in Kamloops BC.
Barbara grew up in Vernon BC during the Second World War and her parents Milton and Kate Haner (with brother William “Bill”) helped the war effort by billeting a number of army solders. Barbara fondly remembers the evening debates that she was able to participate in for entertainment.
After graduating from Fulton high school Barbara moved to Victoria to get her teaching certificate from Victoria Normal School. In later years she completed her degree in Education by attending UBC in the summer.
Her first teaching job was in a very small school in Celista BC on the Shuswap Lake where she met her husband Henry Stankiewicz (Hank). The two were married and built their forever home on the Thompson River in Kamloops BC. Barbara kept up her career that lasted more than 35 years, mostly split between Marion Schilling School in the early years and then later at Dallas Elementary School. She would often recall teaching students and later teaching the children of those past students, as the generations slipped by.
Once Barbara and Hank were established, they brought two sons into the world, Stewart and David. They taught strong family values of community, worship, volunteering and above all “love” as they both taught Sunday School at the United Church.
The Stankiewicz family tree grew through the years with Stewart marrying Valerie Carins with their granddaughter for Barbara named Serria. David married Laura Marshall and brought five more grandchildren into the picture, Riley, Fraser, Calvin (wife Andrea), Oliver, and Miranda (husband David). Most recently Miranda and David gave Barbara two great grandchildren, Oscar and new baby Anja.
After Barbara’s husband passed away in 2001, she moved to Sun Rivers Golf course where she bought a home and started new endeavors such as belonging to Retired Teachers and volunteering at the Sagebrush Theater.
Our Mom has gone to be with her Hank, along with all the family and friends that passed before her.
Condolences may be sent to the family from
5 Tributes
To Stewart and family, reading your mom’s obituary reminds me of why Valleyview was such a great place to grow up! Whether it was school or Sunday school your mom was so important in our lives as we learned. It was people like your mom that got us ready for the rest of our lives. My thoughts and prayers are with you, David and your families.
Take care,
Grant Veale
Stewart and David – my condolences on your Mom’s passing. I have so many fond memories of your Mom and your family from growing up on Thompson Drive. Although I must confess that I was always jealous that there were no girls in your family for me to hang out with (as my brothers did with the two of you). I never had your Mom as a teacher but I’m thankful for having her as a close neighbour and friend.
My thoughts are with you …
Debbie
To Stewart and David, I was so to read that myour mother had passed away. I was her one of the care aides who visited your mother when she lived at Ridge Point Retirement. Your mother always was great to visit and help her.
Stuart and David and families, your mom’s spirit will live on.
Karen
Dear Members of Barb’s family,
We so enjoyed Barb’s company when she lived in the Sagewood community at Sun Rivers.
Your Mom was such a caring, talented and wise person. We have many pleasant memories of sharing good times with her.
Love one another as she loved you.
Ellen and John Faraday
Dear Stewart and David, So sorry to read about your mother. Have very fond memories of her, your dad and you two boys, such a wonderful warm family. Spent many unforgettable years with your mom at Marion Schilling.
All the best to you and your families. Happy that your mom got to spend time with them. Please take care of everyone. Your parents are together again.