Obituary of Barbara Riddell

Riddell- Barbara May (Criswick) of Country Terrace Home in Komoka passed away on Monday, September 2, 2024 at the age of 98. Beloved wife of the late Donald Riddell (2007) and loved mother of Gloria and her husband Donald Cameron and was predeceased by her son Daniel Riddell (2001). Proud grandmother of Tracy (Archie), Shelley (Bill), Micheal, Christopher, Tiffany and is survived by several great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Barbara volunteered twice a week at Etobicoke General Hospital for over 40 years. Upon her retirement, the hospital presented her with an award that recognized her as one of their longest serving volunteers. 

Barbara and Don were avid dancers, square dance being their favourite, often dancing 5 nights a week.  They had a great group of friends that made up their square dance 8, Barbara being the last one of the group. 

She was a lover of all types of puzzles. Despite having only a grade 8 education, she could outdo everyone completing the weekly cryptic crossword puzzle with ease.  And she spent a great many hours during her 11 years at the Longworth Retirement Residence doing jigsaw puzzle after jigsaw puzzle. There, she was known as the puzzle lady!

She was a lifelong fan of the Blue Jays and Maple Leafs, even when they were losing!

She loved her family who always elicited a beautiful smile when they visited. 

She was always the glue keeping everyone together including the writing of many letters back in the day, to family in Bournemouth, England. She hosted more Christmases than anyone at their small house in Rexdale that always felt like home. She will be remembered as being a vibrant, energetic lady, who had a great sense of humour and whom everyone loved, wherever she went. 

The family wishes to thank the staff at Country Terrace Home for their compassion and care of Barbara.

A private family service has taken place and private interment in Glendale Memorial Cemetery in Rexdale. Donations can be made to War Amps Canada, 1 Maybrook Dr Scarbrough, ON M1V 5K9. McFarlane & Roberts Funeral Home 2240 Wharncliffe Rd S London entrusted with the arrangements. On-line condolences available through www.mcfarlane-roberts.ca

https://www.waramps.ca/ways-to-give/in-memoriam/