November 27, 1937 – March 30, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Barbara Keith on March 30, 2025 after a long and hard-fought battle with multiple health issues.  Barb was born in Toronto Ontario on November 27, 1937.

She was predeceased by her long-time companion Mae Rodriquez, as well as her parents Ethel and Kenneth and sister Ethel.  She leaves behind her nieces Nancy Fortnum, Linda Fasciano, Lisa O’Brien and Michelle Neill-Kenthol. Barb will be missed by those who consider her family: her partner in crime Jennifer Morrison and their dog Marcus, the Smit-Heath family (Julie, Daniel, Chris, Vicki), the Collingwood family (Bob, Kim, Terri, Steven), Jamie Duncan and Jennifer’s extended family.

Barb worked in many areas of the federal government during her career, starting as a clerk in 1959, then retiring 35 years later as Interim Director for Revenue Canada.  She held other positions over this time period including Pacific Regional Manager (Human Resources), Director of the Burnaby Regional office (GST/Excise), and Director General of the Pacific Regional office (Excise). After retirement she immersed herself in her community, getting involved in numerous not-for-profit organizations and fundraising events.

Barb was a natural born strategic planner. She was a compendium of knowledge of procedures and regulations, ensuring the rules were followed. She did this with finesse, fairness and her ever-present humour. Barb had a passion for camping, canoeing, boating and travelling.  Her love of vehicles started at a very early age and stayed with her all her life.

Her Celebration of Life will take place at Pleasant Valley Funeral Home at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. The service will be livestreamed (see funeral home website).  If attending the service, please consider wearing a bit of tartan in honour of Barb’s Scottish heritage.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in memory of Barb may do so to the Arts Council of the North Okanagan or the Family Resource Centre, two of the organizations she was passionate about.