BARRIGAR, Evelyn - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Evelyn Barrigar on May 24, 2023, at the age of 83.
Born Evelyn Anna Neufeld in Coaldale, Alberta on October 15, 1939, she and her twin Eddie were the youngest of Peter and Eva Neufeld's 10 children.
When she was still at a young age, the family relocated to the Niagara Falls area of Ontario where she enjoyed picking fruit and playing the accordion.
Academically gifted, Evelyn attended McMaster University where she got her degree in Mathematics.
In her early career, she worked on one of the country's first computers at the Department of Defence in Ottawa. It was during that time when she established many great friendships that continued throughout her life.
In the fall of 1959, she met Robert (Bob) Barrigar whom she would marry in September 1962.
She would have many adventures with Bob through the years as she eventually traveled to six continents, embarked on numerous ski vacations with great friends, and continued going on canoe trips with her beloved Paddle Gals into her 70s.
She was blessed with many strong female friends including those Paddle Gals, various Bridge Clubs, Book Clubs, and Dinner Clubs. She raised four children jennifer, Stephen, Diana, and John (Buzz).
She introduced to each of them the importance of having a strong social support system, hugs, and the benefits of hosting dinner parties. The last of her generation of Neufeld children, Evelyn died peacefully after a short battle with a couple of illnesses. She is survived by her husband, Bob, her four children, their partners, and her three grandchildren.
The family held a private service on May 29th in West Vancouver, BC.
A celebration of life is being planned in Ottawa for later this year.