BARBARA (LYNN) IKER Obituary
(January 25, 1949 – August 26, 2025) Lynn left our earth peacefully in her Arizona home with her loving husband, Terry, and sweet greyhound, Sophie, by her side. She will be sadly missed by all who had the good fortune to know her. She had a big heart, was compassionate, intelligent, loving and much more.
The strength, courage and bravery she displayed throughout her lengthy illness were an inspiration to many. Even in her darkest days she found joy in the simple things. Hot air balloons, numerous bird species adorning the skies, dancing hummingbirds by their feeder, the beautiful AZ skies and sunsets, library date lunches sipping an IPA at her favorite microbrewery with her husband, all served to put a smile on her face and contributed to Lynn's love of her new adopted home.
A great book, a caramel macchiato, challenging crosswords and ice-filled wine were the things that gave her pleasure when her days of travel and adventure were no longer possible.
Growing up in Toronto, Ontario, she was an accomplished swimmer in her youth and was an excellent student who inspired her siblings to work harder. She excelled at everything she did and from an early age her creativity, intellect, determination and imagination were evident.
Lynn was fearless and could be counted upon to help, no matter what the circumstance. Friends and strangers alike would gravitate to Lynn to tap into her insights and wisdom. She had a thoughtful response for all questions. No obstacle was insurmountable and no hurdle was too high. She brought calm to a storm and found the silver lining in the darkest clouds.
She took immense pride in her two sons, who will always be the greatest accomplishment in her life.
Lynn had a love for cooking and baking. She liked to try new recipes and became adept at making Hungarian dishes to support her husband's heritage. Often when visiting relatives in Hungary, Lynn would share cooking duties and then make the same dishes upon returning home.
Although she possessed many skills, her greatest passion involved rescuing greyhounds, Her love and commitment to these magnificent animals inspired a line of safe and beautiful collars that have been used worldwide.
Lynn's earthly journey may be over but the love and joy she shared with family and friends will remain forever.
Lynn is survived by her loving husband, Terry; her sweet pet, Sophie; son, Corin (Heather); granddaughter, Hannah; son, Alec (Marilia); sister, Joanne March (Steve); and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Neil and Jean Bell; and brothers, Terry and Warren. Lynn was the loving mom to Mako, Sophie, Shai, Jacques, Gypsy, Luke, Sammy, Kova, her beloved greyhounds. They all await her arrival.
Special thanks to Hospice of the Valley for their loving and compassionate care shown towards Lynn in her final days.
If anyone is so inclined, they can make a donation on Lynn's behalf to their local greyhound rescue group chapter.
Published by The Globe and Mail from Aug. 30 to Sep. 3, 2025.