BENISH, Barbara

BENISH, Barbara Anne (nee Shipman) - It is with much sorrow that our family announces the passing of our dearly loved wife, mother and nana, Friday, March 22nd, 2013 at Health Sciences North, Sudbury, Ontario at the age of 81. Barb's life began in Hamilton, Ontario in 1931, daughter of William and Eva (nee Burton) Shipman both predeceased of Stoney Creek, Ontario. Beloved wife, friend, and lifelong partner of Frank, married 62 1/2 years. Loving mother and grandmother to: Christine Cullihall (husband Aubrey) and their children, Lindsay and Maegan of Lively; Paula (friend Robin Robitaille) and her son Kristopher of Lively and Douglas and his son Carter of Ottawa. She is also remembered by her brother and sisters; Burt Shipman predeceased (wife Lois) of Estevan, Saskatchewan, Eleanor Dickinson (husband George predeceased) of St. Catharines and Joan Edmunds (husband Bud) of Mount Hope and many nieces and nephews. Barb married Frank in 1950 in Ottawa, Ontario and moved to Sudbury to raise their family. Barbara was a stay-at-home mom and wife. We always knew she would be there to give her undivided attention when we came home from school, from an outing, from a long business trip; she was our rock of Gibraltar. Her devotion to her family was endless. When she wasn't taking care of her family she was curling or snowmobiling or reading. Barb had many talents that included sewing and knitting, which we were very proud to display. She was totally supportive of her husband's work, public life, and with his personal struggle with cancer. Her own courageous strength shone through with her fight against cancer, beating it many times over. She didn't ask for much but for her family's contentment. Barb enjoyed her latter years at their lakefront home with her partner, entertaining friends and cherishing her time with her children and grandchildren. You would often find her puttering around in their gardens in her role as self-designated under-gardener, keeping a close eye on her partner. She will always be remembered for her total selflessness, sensitivity, affection, humour and quiet gentleness. But most of all she will be remembered as our best friend. She will be dearly missed and loved by her family and friends. The family extends their thanks and appreciation to the nurses and doctors of Health Sciences North for their wonderful care and attention. At Barb's request there will be no public visitation or service. Cremation. Arrangements entrusted to the JACKSON AND BARNARD FUNERAL HOME. Memorial donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Northern Cancer Foundation would be appreciated by the family. To light a memorial candle, flowers, donations or messages of condolences available on-line atwww.lougheed.org