It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our mother Blanca Araujo De Barrera, aged 53, after a courageous battle with cancer. Blanca passed away peacefully at St Joseph's Hospice on May 21st, 2012 with family at her side. Blanca was always full of life and love during these difficult times, her love and strength will forever be missed. Blanca was born on December 1st, 1958 in San Salvador, El Salvador. She studied in San Salvador and obtained a bachelor degree in business. There, she met the love of her life Ramiro Alfredo Barrera and they married in 1978. They immigrated to Canada shortly after with four small children in 1986 in hopes of providing a better life for them. Blanca was a hard worker for many years while in Canada as a clerk with the government office. She enjoyed spending time with her family; cooking many dinners, dancing with her husband and karaoke nights with the family. Blanca was a warm, compassionate and vibrant woman who always went out of her way to help others - no matter what. She was a proud and dignified woman who had a passion for life. She was always her happiest surrounded by family and friends. Alfredo and Blanca raised four beautiful children. She will be sadly missed by her husband Alfredo of 34 years, children Francisco, Ever, Blanca (Jordan Gehl), Alfredo (Tina Reccia). She will be missed by all, but her memory will live on in us all forever. A special thank you to Blanca's nurses at St. Josephs care group 4 North especially Clara - thank you for all your help. Thank you to doctors, Dr. Scali, Dr. Sicheri and Dr. Miller. You will always be remembered as Blanca's Angels. We appreciate the kindness and support you have provided our family and Blanca during this difficult time. Private Family Funeral Services were held on Friday May 25th, 2012 in the HARBOURVIEW FUNERAL CENTRE. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society in honour of Blanca. On-Line Condolences may be offered at
www.harbourviewfuneral.ca "
Published by The Thunder Bay Chronicle Journal on May 26, 2012.