February 8, 1940 – September 10, 2026
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Barbara Ann Bukovy (nee Gottfred) announces her passing on September 10, 2026, surrounded by her loving daughters. She bravely battled cancer for many years, always wearing a smile. She inspired us all.
Barbara was a devoted wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, friend and neighbor. Born to Joe and Vera Gottfred on February 8, 1940 in Fort William, Ontario. She was the oldest of seven children raised on Rosslyn Road. She completed her education at Rosslyn Road Public School and Vocational High School. Growing up in the country kept Barb busy as she helped her mom with siblings and worked in their large family garden. This is where her love for family and flowers began.
In 1960, Barbara met Rudy at the Fort William Gardens Roller Rink and they got married in 1962. Together they raised their daughters Kathy and Jo-Anne while sharing a wonderful life full of adventures, laughter and love. They traveled around the world together visiting Europe, the Caribbean, across Canada and the U. S., with many special trips to Florida.
Beyond family life, Barb had various jobs including at National Drugs, MNR Tree Nursery, B& B Dusters (her own cleaning business with dear friend Marion), Mc Donald’s Restaurant Playplace/Birthday Hostess. She also volunteered generously at Hogarth Riverview Manor and Ronald Mc Donald House Charities and was a proud member of St. Elizabeth’s Church along with the Catholic Women’s League.
She is survived by her daughters Kathy Bukovy (Greg) and Jo-Anne Parisee (Richard); sisters Lorraine Briggs, Doreen Veley, Sharon Alexson and Annette Swerdlyk; brothers Joseph Gottfred (Penny) and Randy Gottfred (Heather); sister-in-law Sharon Bukovy; along with honorary granddaughter Elowyn. Many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins and friends also remain.
Barbara was predeceased by her husband Rudy; parents Joe & Vera Gottfred; father-in-law Andrew Bukovy; mother-in-law Martha Bukovy; brothers-in-law Ernie Bukovy and Ken Briggs; as well as great-niece Cheri Lyn Veley.
The Funeral Mass will take place on Friday September 18th ,2026 at 10:00 am at St. Elizabeth’s RC Church (766 Sprague St.). A Celebration of Life will follow at Slovak Legion Hall (801 Atlantic Ave., please note that Pacific Bridge is closed so detour via Main Street bridge). A private family interment will be scheduled for later.
If you wish to make a donation in lieu of flowers please consider TBRHSF Northern Cancer Fund or another charity of your choice.
You can leave your condolences through www. nwfainc. com
