With great sadness, we announce that Barbara passed away on March 24, 2024 at St. Boniface Hospital, at the age of 70 years. During her last days, she was surrounded by a circle of love and support that carried her to the end.

 

Predeceased by her mother Katherine Grzenda & father Daniel Hudson, grandmother (Baba) Mary Danyluk, son Ryan Kubas, cousin Vern Danyluk & dear friend Mary Chuckry. Barbara is survived by her daughter Melanie (Jim), sister Brenda (Dan), nieces Natasha and Kara, brother Gerald, Harry, extended family and friends, and her sweet Cat Chochi.

 

Creative, vivacious, spiritual, and strong, Barbara was a warrior. She put her heart and soul into everything she did. Professionally, she worked as a jewelry designer, starting at Woolco in her teens, then Ben Moss, over twenty years at WK Chan at the Portage Place Mall and five years at Epsilon Jewelers. She was known for her creations, family rings, and pieces that held memories and symbols for those she designed for; she wanted every piece she designed to mean something and make people feel special. On her own time, she painted and drew, and made handmade cards that everyone who knew her got to know well for their thoughtfulness, careful design, and beautiful calligraphy. Her portfolio encompassed her knack for advertising early on in her career, sketches of her designs, and her love for butterflies and art of any nature. On the side, Barbara started her own company, BH Designs, to share what she loved by selling her cards and other creations.

 

Outside of the arts, Barbara loved working out. Taking care of her body and being strong was very important to her: the YMCA was her second home for many years. If you ever went with Barb to one of her YMCA workouts, you know she was a Powerhouse who would “Fire You Up” and work you hard! She loved to be on the beach and soak up the sun, throw a football, show off her talented skipping skills, play tennis with Mel, and ride her bike everywhere with Ryan. She tended lovingly to her many plants, and spoiled her animals: she was so in love with her cat Chochi, who kept her company through the pandemic and kept her spirit alive. We are thankful Chochi is now in a good home and is being loved just like Barbara would have. Barbara also had a love for music, and you could often hear Bob Marley or anything with a Caribbean rhythm coming from her home, accompanied by her famous singing, as she made up her own versions of songs.

 

Through all the challenges she faced, Barbara remained amazingly resilient, and found great comfort in her creative work and spiritual beliefs—especially the angels she knew were looking out for her and her beloveds.

 

In the last several years as Barbara’s health declined, she was so grateful for the love and support offered to her by her sister Brenda, brother-in-law Dan, and dear friend Corey. Barbara also appreciated all the family members and friends who checked in on her and sent her their love and prayers. The family would also like to express appreciation and gratitude to the home care staff from the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority; and Comfort of Home Care Staff for their loving presence and support in this last year. Special thanks to Tricia, who had a special connection with Barbara and brought much-appreciated compassion, laughter, and joy during a difficult time.

 

Barbara’s unique spirit touched the lives of many; all who met her will never forget her. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her, although it comforts us to know she is reunited with so many beloveds—there were many Angels waiting for her arrival! Among them, her son Ryan, with whom she had a bond beyond measure, and who she waited such a long time to see; I can only imagine what those two are up to up there.

 

In accordance with Barbara’s wishes, a cremation has taken place with no formal service at this time. An intimate family gathering may be held at a later date to honour her life. Anyone wishing to honour Barbara’s memory may make a donation to the YMCA, The Humane Society, Klinic, Sara Riel, or a charity of your choice.

 

May you now Rest in Peace Mom—you are free with the Butterflies, surrounded by all the Love, and teaching everyone up there to be strong, to love themselves, and to let their Creative side shine. Love you.

 

Barbara’s family kindly requests that all of her friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour her memory by sharing photos, memories, and stories, using the comment section on this page.