In cherished remembrance of Barbara Lou Colter (nee Benson), who peacefully passed away at the comfortable Hospice Wellington on December 7th, 2023 at age 90.
Born in the warmth of Los Angeles on August 24th, 1933, Barbara, a true California girl, cherished music, family and patriotism with unwavering dedication - her heart forever tethered to her sun-soaked California upbringing.
Her family story began at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where destiny intertwined her life with Allan Colter, her beloved husband of 64 years. They married in 1955 and lived in various American cities until 1968, when they found their permanent haven in Guelph to spend the rest of their lives together.
Barbara had a lifelong passion for learning and returned to university as a mature student where her intellectual curiosity manifested in her achievement of a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in History from the University of Guelph in 1983. But, Barbara was more than the sum of her academic achievements; she was a melody enthusiast with a heart tuned to the rhythms of jazz. Alongside her "soul"mate Allan, she reveled in the magic of jazz festivals, finding joy in the vibrant renowned jazz fest in Chautauqua, New York, and various other festivals across North America. She loved traveling, mostly in the United States and Europe, but also had an adventurous side which took her to Tanzania where she hiked Mount Kilimanjaro at age 60!
Her love extended beyond music, finding solace in the simple joys of walking, particularly at the Old Reformatory dog park with her beloved golden retriever, Bobby. It was during these daily walks that she forged cherished friendships with other dog lovers in the area. Her community spirit was a defining force, evident in her early volunteer work with UNICEF, Onward Willow, and later in bringing joy to the lives of elderly residents when she visited Heritage House, accompanied by her gentle therapy dog, Chauncey.
Barbara’s spirit lives on in her many creative works: paintings and sculptures, as well as the beautiful ceramic tiles she crafted, each piece a testament to her passion and dedication. One of her significant achievements during her time volunteering at Ed Video, was the creation of a video about quilting, eloquently narrated by the esteemed Shelagh Rogers.
Barbara's deepest affections were reserved for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, with whom she created timeless memories through shared travels, performances, baking sessions, family dinners at the Keg and treasured picnics by the Speed River.
She is predeceased by her husband, Allan. Left to carry on her legacy are her children, Dave (Jan), Mary Rae (Geoff) and Lonnie (Roxanne). She was a beacon of love to her grandchildren, Rebecca (Rob), Sarah, Dillon, Emma (Jade) and Aaron, and a source of joy to her great-granddaughters, Hannah and Alyssa.
Barbara's spirit, etched with kindness and generosity, will forever resonate in our hearts. She was our guide, inspiring us to be better, and even in her playful correction of our grammar, she showered us with a love that transcends words. As we say goodbye to this remarkable soul, we cling to the melody of her life, profoundly grateful for the harmonies she brought to ours.
She will be deeply missed by her family and friends.
Resting at Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St. Guelph, a celebration of Barbara’s life will be held in the New Year.