August 5, 1955 – September 14, 2016
It is with great sadness and grieving that we announce the passing of Barbara at the Kamloops Hospice. She passed away peacefully with dignity and courage, with her family and friends at her side. She was very loving, kind, generous, hard working, stubborn, determined, and met her challenges head on. She owned her own company (Ashton & Associates Recruiting, Inc.) and was very successful at what she did.
Barb was loved immensely by her family and friends. She is survived by her loving mother Cathy Ashton; brother, John Ashton; uncles John Bentley, Harvey Bentley and aunt Ada Bentley; and many cousins, friends, and business associates.
Barb enjoyed many outdoor activities- skiing, fishing, horseback riding, and hiking. Barb donated her time and kind loving spirit within the community from fund raising for breast cancer and the local school where she brightened up their day with her delightful laughter.
Special thanks to everyone for your kindness. Special thanks to the staff at RIH and the Marjory Willoughby Snowden Hospice House.
We will always love and miss you, Barb.
Fly with the angels and let your spirit soar – Mom
Not only is it our understanding, but also apparent that Barb was multi-talented and determined, from the time she was tiny and throughout adulthood.
The story goes, as a toddler, Barb knew where every public washroom was located no matter where she was and had no problem helping others find their way in their time of need! This could have been an early sign that she was destined to help and guide others as she proved time and time again.
An advanced adolescent seamstress, basic sewing classes offered in public school were not challenging enough for Barb. It was apparent she had a strong foundation from the start and she continued to build on the basics. Her continuity of her love for learning remained through her life. She gained a strong sense of business and success surrounded her with everything she put her mind to. She never gave up. She was thorough and followed through. Obstacles were her stepping stones.
Many journeys were fulfilled and enjoyed in her little yellow Volkswagen Beetle. I suppose Barb knew that when the time came she would have to trade in the little bug she loved so much to take on new perspectives of things to follow. She knew when change must occur and had an appreciation of the past, only taking what she needed and an acceptance of the present and never feared what the future might bring. For her, the sky was the limit. She pursued the challenges to face her dreams and fulfilled them.
Barb truly loved life and lived it to the fullest. She pursued outdoor activities and enjoyed the game of golf. She was a true thrill seeker. She was drawn to the most frightening rides at the PNE and would go for it where others might shy away. Although strong and independent, she had her little buddy Moe. Her inseparable, “partner in crime,” she enjoyed many travels with her mom, including annual fishing trips. She absolutely loved the water, whether it be a stream, lake, river or the ocean. She found water a calming, soothing therapy.
Open minded, non-judgemental, understanding and accepting she helped many with her forthright messages brought forward with her quick wit and to the punch manner.
Barb’s pleasant and positive attitude attributed to her beautiful smile that seemed a constant no matter what her personal adversities. She was true to her word and she stood her ground as she managed life as if there were no tomorrow. An example set for all.
One could feel Barb’s devotion to her mom in all ways. Not only mother and daughter, but the best of friends bound by unfailing trust, an external love deeper than deep.
Barb acquired strength by leading a healthy lifestyle and life. In doing so she prepared herself to maintain strength while she readies to enter the next chapter of her journey. A true visionary.
Her laughter and enlightening smiles will carry on in all of us that she inspires. May we all be blessed with the lessons she gifts us. May we all aspire to be a being of class and grace as Barb is.
We are forever thankful she’s a part of our lives.
We will forever love her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Kamloops Hospice, 72 Whiteshield Cr. South Kamloops, BC V2E 2S9.
A Celebration of Life for Barb will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2016, in the Tea Room at Kamloops Funeral Home, 285 Fortune Drive.
Condolences may be expressed at www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com

• Date : 2016-09-14
• Location : Kamloops, B.C.