FREEDA BARON

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FREEDA BARON Freeda Baron (nee Fenster), aged 95, died peacefully on Friday, November 25, 2016. She was born on March 13, 1921, in Edenbridge, Saskatchewan, a small farming community that her parents, immigrants from Europe, helped establish and build. The baby of the family, Freeda thrived on the farm. Those early years provided her with secure attachments and deep relationships with her four older siblings, and a belief that anything is possible if you work at it. As a young woman, she moved to Winnipeg, married her husband, Bill (1980), and they worked together in their tailor shop while raising their young family. Freeda, a lifelong learner and champion of higher education, went back to Teachers College when her children were all in school. In an era where women had few choices outside the home, she was an independent thinker, blazing trails and challenging stereotypes. She continued with university courses while teaching, and got her Bachelor and Masters of Education; she taught for 30 years, having an impact on countless students and teachers; she traveled, she volunteered; she continued to encourage everyone to read, to study, to learn, to explore the world and most of all, remember to make it a better place. Freeda's pride and joy was her family. She had four children, Celia Baron (2016), Ricki Miles (Gary), Miriam Baron (Cliff), Ken Baron (Sharna), grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also had close relationships with her numerous cousins, nephews and nieces, in-laws, friends and colleagues. Although she experienced hardship in her life, she always learned from it, and came out stronger. Thrifty, clever, creative, understanding, funny, feisty, caring... everyone probably has their own story of Freeda Baron, how she listened, or was a role model, or helped or encouraged them. She was a wise and political woman interested in the world, but knew there's no place like home. She will live on in our memory and through her legacy; our love for her will not diminish, and we will miss her even as we continue to experience her guidance and love. The family thanks everyone for their support and love over the years, in particular Freeda's dedicated caregiver, Juanita Bunyi. Funeral service and burial was on Sunday, November 27, 2016. Freeda's passion was education. The family has established "The Freeda Baron Education Fund" in her honour. Gifts may be made on-line (www.jewishfoundation.org) or by contacting the Foundation tribute line at 204-477-7520.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 29, 2016