Trudy Barkman (nee Mesher)
Obituary
On December 28, 2018 after struggling with multiple health issues for the last few years, Trudy passed away peacefully in her sleep, at her home in Steinbach.
She is survived and hugely missed by her husband Lowell Barkman; her children: Karen Peters (Cameron), Monica Peach (Greg), Amber Barkman, and Mike Barkman; as well as her four grandchildren: Alex, Sam, Addison and Aidan.
She was pre-deceased by her parents Mark and Dulcie Mesher and survived by her brother Garry (Betty).
Though they didn’t all grow up together, Trudy was part of a large extended family. She was pre-deceased by her biological mother Katie Mclean and biological father Jim Michelin and sister Ula (Antoine). She is survived by brothers: Albert (Heather), Herman (Linda), Gordie, Corey, Ian, and Paul and sisters: Stella, Lully (Carmen), Jane (Ray), Joanne (Frank), and Marilyn (Don).
Trudy also leaves behind father-in-law Harvey Barkman, sister-in-law Sandee Ensz (Lorin) and brother-in-law Gerald Barkman, along with many nieces and nephews.
Pixie, her dog and constant companion, had a very special (but noisy) place in her heart, and misses her terribly.
Trudy was born on June 2, 1953 in North West River, Labrador. Trudy was “born with a silver spoon in her mouth”…having been born on Queen Elizabeth ll’s Coronation Day. She was named after her and Trudy received a silver spoon commemorating her birth on such a momentous occasion by Mr. Vincent Massey, our Governor General!
Trudy grew up in Goose Bay, a neighboring town, she especially loved the time spent on the family boat during the summer months. As a young adult, Trudy moved to Montreal, married Stephen Dylla, and had two daughters together. After their divorce, she took a number of college courses, pursuing a career in business. Her sense of adventure had her managing hotels across western Canada.
Twenty five years ago on December 24, 1993, Trudy met Lowell while living in Cold Lake, Alberta. They hit it off immediately and have been inseparable ever since, as witnessed by all who knew them. And as they say, the rest is history!
Lowell and Trudy were (finally!) married at the Steinbach EMC Church on October 14, 2000. They moved frequently for a while, and were affectionately referred to as “Gypsies” for their love of adventure and travel! In 2005, they settled in to North West River, where Trudy worked for the Nunatsiavut Government, first as the economic development officer, then later as an elected representative in the Nunatsiavut Assembly, and as Chairperson of the Sivunivut Corporation in North West River. She sadly had to leave the last position due to her deteriorating health.
Trudy loved the Big Land and with hesitation, and increasing health concerns, moved back to Manitoba a few short months ago.
She loved Labrador and the lifestyle there, loved travelling, and especially loved her cabin. It goes without saying that she loved her family and friends, and was happiest when surrounded by them…especially if there was some good old country music around!
Trudy had a great Christmas season this year, and enjoyed her “favorite time of year” immensely with her Manitoba family.
Trudy was much loved and well thought of by friends, family and really all who knew her. She was a wonderful person and will be greatly missed by many.
The family would like to give special thanks the following people for their much appreciated support of Trudy over the years: Eileen, Brenda, Janice, Joyce, Priscilla, Phoebe and Wendy. Trudy greatly appreciated your friendship and time.
A Celebration of Life for Trudy will take place on Wednesday, January 2, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB. In memory of Trudy her family invites you to wear her favourite colour, red, to the ceremony.
