Barbara Beverley Rodger Obituary
Barbara Beverley “Barb” Rodger passed away on August 29, 2026, at the age of 79, comforted by her husband, Laurie; her daughters, Shawna and Kelsey; and her sister, Sheila.
Born Barbara Beverley Wait in Nelson, British Columbia, on June 15, 1947, Barb was active in swimming, running, and cheerleading during high school. Her love of food began in cooking classes, and she worked in the kitchen at Kootenay Lake Hospital while attending high school and university.
After earning a Bachelor of Education degree at UBC, Barb devoted 35 years to teaching. She taught in Coquitlam and Mackenzie before moving to Kelowna in 1972 to teach at KLO. She later worked at Hollywood Road Junior Secondary, Springvalley Secondary, and Kelowna Senior Secondary. Although she retired in 2006, she continued teaching on call for another five years.
Barb married Laurie in 1978 after meeting him in 1975. Their close family shared a love of dancing, cooking, laughter, and travel. They visited relatives and friends in Nelson, Vancouver, and Vancouver Island and, in retirement, travelled together through Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. They celebrated 48 years of marriage in May 2026.
Barb was Nana to Addison, Gavin, and Hank; Auntie Barb to Craig, Graeme, Eric, Graham, Burt, Claire, and Lauren; and, at her request, “Big Momma” to her sons-in-law, Dan and Justin. She is also remembered by many friends who became family.
A celebration of Barb’s life is planned for the spring; further details have not been announced. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Barb Rodger Bursary for Culinary Arts Students.
Source: Springfield Funeral Home
