BARBARA JEAN ERSKINE

BARBARA JEAN ERSKINE September 25, 1955 – December 21, 2023 It is with profound sadness and great love that we announce the passing of Barbara Erskine. Barb passed away at her home in Kagawong on December 21, 2023, with her loving partner Susan Snelling by her side. Their beloved pets Joy and Sparky were present and attentive throughout her passing. Barb was born in Etobicoke to Robert Erskine and Iris McGinnis, both predeceased. Mourning her loss are her partner of 35 years, Susan; her sister Patricia and brother-in-law Al; her family members Sheila, Peter, Pam, Liz, Rob, Katherine, Andrew and Chris; and many friends. She worked as a psychologist, including at the York Region Separate School Board, and for 18 years at Noojmowin Teg Health Centre on Manitoulin Island. After retirement, always up for diverse new challenges, she served as a municipal councillor in the Township of Billings, as general manager of Split Rail Brewing, and as a Board member of the Kagawong library. She will be remembered for the impact she had as a political analyst, boundary-pusher and committed community volunteer who always showed up. Barb was known for her great cooking and baking and she and Susan enjoyed hosting some amazing dinner parties. She loved to be active and was known by her Kagawong neighbours for her daily walks and runs, no matter the weather, often with her dog Roscoe. Barb took up meditation in her thirties, hockey in her forties, nature photography in her 50s, and strength training in her 60s. She was also a dedicated environmentalist and bird watcher. She and Susan enjoyed travelling and being at home on her beloved Manitoulin, home of the Anishinaabeg. Thanks are due especially to the staff of the Mindemoya Hospital emergency department who provided such caring support to Barb throughout her illness and to friends who stepped in to help in so many ways. Donations in Barb’s memory may be offered to the Mindemoya Hospital Auxiliary or to the Billings Public Library.