BARBARA LOIS ROCAN (BODEN)

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BARBARA LOIS ROCAN
(nee BODEN)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of our loving mother and grandmother, Barbara Lois Rocan, on Tuesday, March 24, 2020.
She was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, Lionel; brother, Ross Boden; sister-in-law, Eleanor Boden; and brothers-in-law, Ken Harrison and Barry Johnson.
Left to cherish her memory are her children, Carolyn (Allan) Isliefson, Mark Rocan, Brian (Eleanor) Rocan and Sandra (Jeff) Delavau. Grandma will be greatly missed by grandchildren, Kristin (Patrick), Jo-Anne (Darren), Derek (Alex), Kelly (Peter), Riley, Jesse; and her six great-grandchildren. She will be fondly remembered by her brother, Lloyd; sister, Linda (John); sister-in-law, Lauri; and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Mom was born on July 2, 1938 to parents, Walter and Ruth Boden. She was proud of her Swedish heritage and was a devoted daughter, and a great support to her mother until her passing in 2014. Mom was a quiet, soft-spoken child and a good student. She decided to leave school early and started working at Eaton's. Mom had beautiful handwriting and was initially hired because of her penmanship. Always a quick learner, she mastered the large posting machine in record time. She enjoyed working at Eaton's, and liked to go roller skating after work with friends whenever she had the opportunity. She met the love of her life, Lionel, at the roller rink. Mom and Dad were married on June 30, 1956, and shortly thereafter started their family. Mom continued to work at Eaton's for a few years, but decided to stay at home with her children after their second child was born.
Dad began his career as a professional transport driver early in their marriage, and was away from home for long periods of time. Mom's father had instilled in her the belief that she could do anything, and it gave her the confidence to handle the responsibilities of family, home and heart during our father's absence. She was not afraid to tackle anything, whether it was painting, repairs or finances – all the while caring for four children.
Having grown up in a musical family, music had always been an important part of Mom's life. Her family loved to get together to play music and sing songs. Mom treasured her taped recordings of those get-togethers. Mom and Dad also enjoyed playing cards or games with friends and family, and sometimes even had two card tables going at one time. Mom became an avid sports fan in her later years, and we knew not to call when there was a Bombers game on.
Mom had many talents and was a perfectionist. She sewed, crocheted, knitted, and baked the delicious Swedish coffee bread that her own mother had baked. Her claim to fame was her homemade fudge. Mom knitted beautifully and many loved ones were the recipients of her creations – even the dogs received knitted sweaters. She enjoyed knitting dishcloths in her later years, and we were always happy to receive them as gifts.
The most important thing in Mom's life was her family, and her family always came first. She was proud of her children and always looked forward to time spent with them. She was a wonderful grandmother and treasured her time with her grandchildren. She was always interested in their activities, and was happy to babysit when needed.
Mom was a beautiful person inside and out. She was a kind, caring person, and always saw the good in people. She had a quiet inner strength, and was very determined and resourceful. She was very independent and did not like to ask for help, but was always so appreciative of any help she received. Mom loved to celebrate the achievements and milestones of others, but she never liked to be the center of attention herself.She had a great sense of humour and an amazing memory. She was the voice of reason and a strong support for so many loved ones.

Thank you, Mom, for your constant love and support, and for all the wonderful memories you have given us. We will miss you.

In keeping with Mom's wishes, cremation has taken place. A private family gathering will be held at a later date.
Our family would like to thank the wonderful nurses and staff at St. Boniface Hospital for their compassionate care during her brief stay there, especially during such a heightened time.
In lieu of flowers, and in keeping with Mom's love for animals, donations may be made in her memory to the Winnipeg Humane Society.

Condolences may be sent to www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 28, 2020