Barbara Kruzick

On the beautiful fall morning of October 10, 2026, Barbara passed away peacefully in hospital after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on June 5, 1946, in Port Arthur, Ontario, to Clara and John McCartney, Barbara remained a lifelong resident of the city she proudly called home.

In 1966, Barbara embarked on a year-long European adventure with her lifelong friend, Frances Kruzick. It was during this journey that she met and became engaged to the love of her life, Vladimir. Upon returning to Canada, Barbara arranged for Vladimir to immigrate, and they were married on May 11, 1968. Together, they shared 58 wonderful years of marriage, building a life grounded in love, devotion, and family while raising their three children.

Barbara was a member of Lakeview Presbyterian Church and, until complications with her health, worked for the City of Thunder Bay Parks and Recreation Department.

Family was at the center of Barbara’s world. One of her greatest joys and proudest accomplishments was being a grandmother to her beloved grandchildren, who affectionately knew her as “Nanny.” They held a special place in her heart and brought her immeasurable happiness, pride, and love.

Barbara will be remembered for her kind heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. She always took the time to consider the needs and feelings of others and was known for her compassion, generosity, and ability to make everyone feel welcome. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures, including baking, sewing, crocheting, playing Scrabble, tending to her garden, and caring for her family.

Among the family’s most treasured memories are the trips to Croatia to visit loved ones and reconnect with family roots. Barbara also cherished time spent at Hawkeye Lake, where she found peace sitting at the water’s edge with her feet in the lake, surrounded by the people she loved most. She appreciated the beauty of nature, the tranquility of the outdoors, and the simple moments that brought family together.

Barbara leaves behind her loving husband, Vladimir; her children, Gregory (Ling Lee), Steven (Christina Hiscox), and Korinne (Brent Thierry); and her cherished grandchildren, Kyle, Johnathan, Dani, and Ryan. She is also survived by her sisters, Mary Jean Larocque and Carol Klukie; her sister-in-law, Neda Kruzick (Croatia); and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends, all of whom will miss her deeply.

Barbara was predeceased by her parents, Clara and John McCartney; her brother, David McCartney; her nephew, Joshua Klukie; her brothers-in-law, George Larocque, Reg Klukie and Dusan Kruzick (Croatia); and her beloved mother and father-in-law, Antonia and Ivan Kruzick (Croatia).

Cremation has taken place. Family and friends are invited to gather at Sargent & Son Reception Centre, 21 North Court Street, Thunder Bay, on November 7, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1 pm for a time of remembrance and to share memories of Barbara’s life. A private interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre Cancer Clinic for the exceptional care, compassion, and support provided throughout Barbara’s journey. Special thanks are extended to Dr. Laferriere and the entire Cancer Care team, whose kindness and dedication helped make a difficult time more bearable.

The family would also like to express their profound gratitude to Diane Hiscox. Diane, you were a constant source of friendship and support through both the joyful moments and the difficult days. Your kindness, generosity, and unwavering presence will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Barbara’s memory may be made to Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre Cancer Care.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.sargentandson.com.

Mom, your presence was a gift, your memory a treasure.

We will carry you in our hearts always.

Forever loved, forever remembered.