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NOELLE CAROLINE MARIE BARNES (WHYTE)
Born: Dec 25, 1927
Date of Passing: Aug 16, 2020
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
NOELLE CAROLINE MARIE BARNES
(nee WHYTE)
As the sun shone in, our dear mom died peacefully on Sunday, August 16, 2020, at her home after a weekend surrounded by her family with her favourite music playing in the background.
Mom was predeceased by her husband Vern, sisters, Margaret and Jane, brother Bill and her parents, Marguerite and William Whyte, and Vern's sister and brother-in-law, Muriel and Ian Angus. She is survived by her daughter Diane and son-in-law David Johnston; son Derek and daughter-in-law Shirley; granddaughter Maggi and husband Stephen Brooker, and great-granddaughter Madelyn and grandsons, Matt Johnston and wife Jane Johnston, Will Johnston and Steve Barnes as well as many dearly loved nieces and nephews and special friends.
Noelle Caroline was born on Christmas night in 1927, the youngest of four children by 10 years. She attended Grosvenor School, Robert H. Smith, Kelvin High School and graduated from United College in 1946. After graduation, she started working for the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce where she met her future husband Vern in 1950. They were married in 1953 and together raised their family.
Mom was known as Noe to all her family and friends. She created a wonderful home where she loved to cook and entertain. If you knew Noe and Vern, you were spoiled by their generosity and friendship and they were happiest pouring you a drink or two. Noe continued that trait even as her health and mind declined, always offering a drink or a snack to anyone who came through her door.
Nana, as she was known to her grandkids, had a very special relationship with all of them. She was their confidante, stocked their fridges, took them on lunch and dinner dates and was a great friend. A special memory for all of us was a cruise to celebrate Nana's 80th birthday and Nana was definitely the life of the party!
The place that Mom and Dad had the most fun at was their cottage in Gimli. Whether entertaining during Islendingadagurinn, having grandkids for overnight visits, or spending time with family and friends, it brought them and latterly Mom much joy. Joanne and Peter O'Hara and their family became their Gimli family.
Mom was also very proud of her heritage as the granddaughter of Sir William Whyte, who was instrumental in bringing the railway to Western Canada. Besides finding and establishing Winnipeg Beach, there are many places named after him including Fort Whyte, Whytewold, William Whyte School and Mount Whyte in the Rockies near Lake Louise.
Noe had a wonderful home at the Shaftsbury Retirement Residence over the last five years where she received tremendous support, love and compassion from all. We are especially grateful to the Boulevard staff including Rhosel, Agnes, Kamaldeep and Allan, as well as Helma from home care. They all became Mom's added family and she loved them dearly.
Mom was strong and feisty as she fought off illness and Dad's untimely death. She endeared herself to so many and was always kind, caring and generous. She had a great smile, an infectious laugh, and more than anything, taught us all how to have fun! We know there is a great party going on as Mom reunites with her beloved Vern and so many family and friends!
At Mom's request, there will be a private family service in September.
If you wish, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society, 45 Hurst Way, Winnipeg, MB R3T 0R3, CancerCare Manitoba, 675 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9 or a charity of your choice.
"We'll meet again some sunny day"
THOMSON FUNERAL HOME
204-783-7211
Condolences may be sent to
www.thomsonfuneralchapel.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 22, 2020
Condolences & Memories (7 entries)
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When we moved to Winnipeg in ‘59 Mrs Whyte came to the door with a welcoming pie. Mom never forgot that. Mr Whyte died not long after and I remember him laying in state in the living room - very strange for a 5 year old. Vern took us kids on a tour of the bank and I accidentally pressed the panic button under the counter... Dad is 96 now and probably not long for this world but still has fond memories of the Whytes and Noe Barnes. - Posted by: Peter Maitland (jr) (Friend) on: Jan 17, 2021
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My parents Bob and Elaine Riches were great friends of Vern & Noe. In fact the Barnes used to babysit me Bill, brother Jim and sister Patti. Even after my parents left Winnipeg the friendship continued and when ever they returned to Winnipeg they visited often in Gimli. Vern would make cocktails and Noe whipped up smoked fish and crackers. What wonderful memories we have. - Posted by: Bill & Sharon Riches (Old family friend) on: Aug 27, 2020
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My deepest sympathy on Noe's passing. Noe and Vern were two of the kindest and generous people I have known. I have fond memories of attending their Christmas open houses and when they would drop over to my grand mother's home. She will be miss by all. - Posted by: Jim Blair (son of David (Noe's cousin)) on: Aug 23, 2020
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Condolences to Diane and Derek and families. Many fond memories of the times we had connections with Noe and Vern. Regularly attended the Blair family gatherings on Grosvenor and Dorchester over the years. And we were warmly welcomed at celebrations at their home as well. Noe’s cheerful and friendly personality lit up any room. She will be missed. - Posted by: Gail Smith.(nee Blair) (Daughter of David Blair who was Noe’s cousin) on: Aug 22, 2020
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So sorry to to see the news of Noe's passing. Our thoughts & prayers are with you all. Take care. - Posted by: Doug & Peggy McLaughlin (Friends of Diane & Dave) on: Aug 22, 2020
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Sorry it hear of her passing. Noe and Vern were often at the Christmas Open houses that my Nana had. Occasionally, Dad would take us for a visit at Aunt Marguerite’s house/ or Noe’s. Dad always had nice things to say about them. You all will have great memories of her. - Posted by: Margaret Ball(nee Blair) (Noe was my Dad’s (David) cousin) on: Aug 22, 2020
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So many memories over the years as Vern and Noe always lived so close. The hostess with the mostess. What a wonderful entertainer and always so full of joy. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her - Posted by: bob clark (2nd cousin) on: Aug 22, 2020
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