Barbara Ann Gruber

February 4, 1943 - October 8, 2023
In Loving Memory ~
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Barbara Gruber, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and an exceptional community volunteer, leaving behind a legacy of love and warmth that will forever remain in our hearts.
Barbara was born in Prince Rupert on February 4, 1943, to loving parents Vincent and Olga Dodd. Her heart and soul remained rooted in Prince Rupert, where, other than a brief period in Usk, she spent the entirety of her life until her passing on October 8, 2023, surrounded by the warmth of her family's love.
Barb's life was marked by her unwavering commitment to her family and her community. In 1965, she married the love of her life, Roberto, and together they built a life filled with compassion and dedication to family and making their community a better place. Barbara was a loving wife, a dedicated mother to her sons, Robert (June) and Michael (Angela), a proud grandmother to Jacob and a cherished sister to Beverly.
Barb leaves behind a host of extended family members and lifelong friends who she considered part of her own family. She offered guidance, encouragement, and an abundance of love to help everyone navigate life's journeys.
Barb especially enjoyed adventures when shared with family and friends. Some of her fondest memories were made on vacation getaways, and she cherished her visits to Hawaii, where she had the pleasure of travelling this year.
From volunteering at the local schools and supporting various youth activities, well beyond the days of her commitment as a parent & grandparent, to serving as Trustee for School District 52, Barb recognized the importance of supporting and advocating for the youth of Prince Rupert.
Barb enjoyed serving as a marriage commissioner for a number of years, helping hundreds begin their own journeys together as a married couple. Many ceremonies took place in Barb's own living room when the couple didn't have a venue available.
Barb's passion for community involvement was unparalleled. Over her lifetime, she tirelessly devoted her time, energy, expertise and feisty spirit to countless initiatives and organizations. She truly believed in the power of community and strengthening the bonds that bring everyone together. Barb spent numerous years bringing community festivals to life through her work with the City of Prince Rupert and the Special Events Society.
She also looked for opportunities to bring new events and services to her hometown, including the Northern BC Winter Games, the introduction of Crime Stoppers to Prince Rupert and the Cruise Ambassador Program. Barb continued to play an active role with the Prince Rupert Rotary Club, the Prince Rupert Regional Community Foundation and as the treasurer for the local breast cancer support group, wholeheartedly supporting those in need during their most challenging times.
In recognition of her exceptional contributions and unwavering dedication to the community, Barb was awarded the Freedom of the City in 2020 by the City of Prince Rupert, a testament to her extraordinary commitment to the place she called home. It's not without saying that Barb's bossiness & sass was an asset in getting things done.
Barb's legacy will continue to inspire us to embrace life's adventures, nurture family bonds, and give back to the community, just as she did so tirelessly throughout her lifetime.
A Celebration of Life in honour of Barbara will be held on October 28, 2023, at the Lester Centre of the Arts from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you consider making a donation to a charity of your choice in her memory. Barb's spirit was vibrant, and in her memory, we encourage all attendees to consider wearing bright colours, reflecting the joy she brought to all our lives.