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BARBARA STRANG Obituary

STRANG, BARBARA 1963 - 2018 Barbara Strang passed away peacefully at home in East York at the age of 55 on April 3, 2018 surrounded by her close family. She was predeceased by her father James Strang. Barbara had a heart full of love and gratitude for her husband Guy Smagghe and daughters Isabelle and Nathalie Strang, her mother Ethel, sister Susan and brother Don, her extended family and all of her dear friends. She was grateful to the many medical professionals who helped her in recent years. Barbara touched the hearts and lives of countless people as she worked to advocate for the world's children with UNICEF Canada for 13 years as Director of Communications. As a consultant, she developed policies to draw attention to issues of food security and nutrition to help the vulnerable people in Canada and around the world. Barbara developed resources to help Canadians understand and become allies on a healing and reconciliation journey related to the legacy of residential schools in Canada. More than anything, she was an exemplary mother guided by her profound love for her two daughters. Barbara lived her life with remarkable sensitivity, grace and courage and she brought light and love to all those around her. In recent years, Barbara used her creative gifts and insight to write poetry that is full of deep spirituality and sincere humanity. She left us with a legacy of how to be kind and good and how to face the greatest challenges with humility and grace. A visitation will take place at Eastminster United Church, 310 Danforth Avenue, Toronto, from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, April 20th. A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, April 21st at 2 p.m. at Eastminster United, with reception to follow at the church. In lieu of flowers and respecting Barbara's wishes, the family is requesting donations to The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation, Ovarian Cancer Fund - Research.

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Published by Toronto Star on Apr. 7, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for BARBARA STRANG

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73 Entries

Bonnie Gray

April 23, 2018

Guy & Family - so sorry to be seeing this on Facebook today. What a wonderful woman and friend. We were a day after each other for birthdays and I had the joy to work with her at Leah Posluns and then again years later at Unicef. She will be missed - love to you today - Bonnie

Leanne Foster

April 22, 2018

Barbara and I attended Silverthorn Collegiate together. I will always remember her French horn playing, our band trip to Boston, her exchange trip to Germany, and her passion for social justice. Even in her teens, Barbara emanated a calmness, a warmth and a deep commitment to helping others. It is heartwarming to hear how her life touched so many in meaningful ways. I am deeply saddened by her passing.

Last day of high school at Barabara's locker

Janice Nelson

April 22, 2018

I am so saddened to hear of Barbara's passing. We were friends in high school and we shared many classes together including French, Latin and music and band. She was a beautiful person inside and out. We reconnected through Facebook a few years ago and I was amazed at how she didn't seem to have aged a day. I was not surprised to read of all the great things that she went on to do in her life that reflected her compassion for humanity and spirituality. I was moved by her beautiful poetry and through that learned of her cancer diagnosis. I am so sorry for your loss and wish you comfort in the days ahead.

Mary Stuart

April 21, 2018

Today is the day we have our goodbye to Barbara. She may be gone psychically but she will live on in all of us who she has touched. Barbara truly was an amazing, strong, incredible woman who I looked up to and strive to live my life through her teachings: be kind, loving, thoughtful, and generous to those around you amongst many more. I could write pages about my Aunt and how she brought light to everyone around her. Barbara you are so genuinely missed and loved! Thank you for your mentorship and love it will be carried with me for the rest of my life.
Xoxo

April 20, 2018

Guy, puisse l'affectueuse présence de tes deux admirables filles apaiser ta tristesse.

Leur maman leur a légué un solide héritage celui du courage, de la persévérance, de la gentillesse et de l'empathie.

Barbara sera toujours avec vous.

Nos sincères regrets et condoléances émues.

Famille Guy Charles

Donna Waller

April 19, 2018

Dear Barbara, The love, strength and words you shared will always be with your family and friends. Heartfelt condolences Guy, Isabell Nathali.

Nellie Brodie

April 19, 2018

Although I met Barbara only a few years ago through her sister Susan, I could feel she was an old soul with a big heart. She was already sick when we met, yet she had a way of making you feel she's got this and was more than interested in wondering how you were doing. I will always remember her kind soft eyes that really looked right at you when you spoke..I was fortunate enough to read some of her beautiful poetry that was deep and insightful. Beautiful lady. Our condolences to Guy, her beautiful daughters, Susan and John, Mrs Strang and all the extended family. Regards..Nellie and Gary Brodie and family

Ooma, Theo, Lina, Alan

April 19, 2018

We have been so sad and shocked. Barb was such a lovely person. Words just cannot express. Guy, Isabel and Natalie, we are thinking of you.


Deepest Condolences Bouquet

David Braithwaite

Sent Flowers

April 18, 2018

I was shocked when I learned about Barbara's passing.
As I said in a previous testimony in French,
For Harry Black, then Executive Director of UNICEF Canada, and myself, Barbara was the ideal candidate to take over as National Director of Communications and replace me as I was to be appointed by UNICEF Regional Communications Officer in West and Central Africa.
Her vision of what was needed to take up the challenge of advocating for the implementation of the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child in Canada as well as world wide. Her dedication, from day one, to contribute to the development of advocacy and fundraising programmes aiming at ensuring the well-being of the most vulnerable children, her incredible capacity of listening to her colleagues and supporting them when needed was truly appreciated by all.
Barbara and I quickly became strong allies and professional accomplices; then good friends. I learned a lot from Barbara's work and warm personality.
I regret that, due to my poor health, I cannot travel to Toronto to pay my respect to a wonderful person. My thoughts and prayers be with Guy, their daughters Isabelle and Nathalie, family and colleagues.
Barbara, you will be missed by all and you will always remain in my mind. RIP my good friend.

Robert B. Lussier
Former National Communications Director, UNICEF Canada

Jacqueline Wood

April 16, 2018

Dear Guy and family,

I am very sorry for your loss. Courage to you in this difficult time.

Jacqueline Wood

At "Our" Restaurant in Milton

Jane Ann McLachlan

April 13, 2018

Barbara and I met 7 years ago when we shared a hospital room. It was an unusual beginning to a friendship a two-week-long pajama party' during which we were both in pain and frightened. We began as strangers but forged a close bond there that continued to deepen through the years I knew her. We didn't live near each other, but supported and encouraged each other through email and occasional visits. She sent me her poetry; I sent her my stories. When either of our symptoms recurred we made prayer dates. When Barbara got stronger we began meeting for lunches in Milton, half-way between our homes. Barbara shared her love and pride in her beautiful daughters and their accomplishments, her hopes and dreams for their future, and her deep love and gratitude for Guy. I treasured her spiritual insights and wise advice. She was incredibly strong and courageous, generous and caring. Guy's beautiful obituary captures her selfless spirit. I will miss Barbara terribly, as will everyone who had the incredible good fortune to love and be loved by her.

Elly Vandenberg

April 12, 2018

My sincere condolences to you, Guy. I pray that you are comforted by your faith, warm memories and the love of your friends, family and all the others touched by Barbara's essence.

Richard Van Dine

April 12, 2018

My long-ago and too-brief time working alongside Barbara through UNICEF Canada's former communications committee was filled with gratitude for Barbara's patient, smiling and encouraging approach to every collaboration. Such an uplifting spirit, surely to be missed. Merci, Barbara, and au revoir.

April 12, 2018

It is stunning and hard to accept that Barbara is not here. We can still see her smiling eyes and hear her loving voice. In her quiet way Barbara could make you feel special without ever demanding your attention: she blessed you with hers. Barbara was that very rare person who was both gentle and strong, and what she taught us about life, love, and giving will stay with us forever. All our love to Guy, Isabelle and Nathalie. From Kathleen, John and Annie

Anitha Mahendiran

April 12, 2018

I was shocked by the unexpected news of the untimely death of Barbara. I had opportunities of spending time with her during my visits to your home. I was touched by her love and concern, friendliness and simplicity. Her obituary in the Toronto Star is a fitting tribute to her life and services.

My father, Robert Guruswamy and I thank the Lord for her fine qualities and committed services, and pray that the almighty God grant Guy, Isabella and Nathalie strength to bear the loss and overcome the sorrowful event.

With assurance of prayer support,
Anitha Mahendiran
Director
Institute For Development Education
Chennai, India

Hannelore Coens

April 11, 2018

Dear Guy, Isabelle and Nathalie
We are deeply shocked and saddened with this bad news.
Our sincerest sympathies!
We will remember Barbara as a wonderful woman and mother.
You are in our thoughts.
With love,
Koen, Hannelore, Thomas, Simon and Andreas

Jini Stolk

April 11, 2018

It's been many years since I worked with Barb at the Toronto Theatre Alliance, but I remember her vividly and with great warmth and affection. She was a wonderful colleague and a beautiful soul. I'm saddened by her loss, and send my deepest sympathies to her family and friends.

April 11, 2018

Mes sincères condoléances à toi, à tes filles Isabelle et Nathalie, à ta famille et à celle de Barbara, à nos anciens collègues et bénévoles d'UNICEF Canada qui l'ont bien connue et appréciée. L'annonce de son départ m'a profondément bouleversé.

Alors que j'allais quitter UNICEF Canada afin de servir UNICEF International en Afrique de l'Ouest et du Centre, pour Harry Black, alors directeur général d'Unicef Canada et à moi-même, de même que pour le Comité de sélection, grâce à sa compréhension des enjeux nationaux et internationaux pour la promotion de de la Convention relative aux droits de l'enfant, la défense de leurs droits, sa vision des défis du plaidoyer en faveur de l'amélioration des conditions de vie des enfants parmi les plus vulnérables au Canada et dans les pays en développement, Barbara est vite apparue comme la candidate par excellence pour me succéder en qualité de Directrice nationale des communications.

Elle s'est mise à l'oeuvre dès le premier jour et J'ai vivement apprécié son dévouement pendant la période de transition et sa vision des défis à relever. Nous sommes vite devenus des partenaires au travail, puis des complices et des amis. Elle m'a appris beaucoup et je garderai longtemps le souvenir d'une personne chaleureuse qui a su s'imposer par son dévouement, sa personnalité chaleureuse et son souci d'être à l'écoute et d'appuyer le travail de ses collègues. Barbara tu vas nous manquer à tous. Repose en paix.

Robert B. Lussier
Ancien collègue et ami.
Oka, Québec

Heather Young

April 11, 2018

I am so terribly sad to learn of Barbara's passing. I worked with her (oh dear!) about 30 years ago at the Toronto Theatre Alliance when we were both taking first steps along our career paths. We long since lost touch with each other. Barb joined us to work on a tourism marketing project. She brought so much light to the office, and gave 110% to the job every day. Her commitment to making the world a better place was inspiring. And -- she was the first person I'd ever met with family roots in Iceland, a fact I found completely fascinating. My heart goes out to her children and husband -- you will miss her so! Barb was indeed a gift to be cherished.

Beth Berton-Hunter

April 11, 2018

Barbara worked with me at UNICEF Canada. She worked hard to make a better place for children. She was also very supportive of me. We have lost a really great person, who loved Guy and her girls Isabelle and Nathalie so much. Thinking of you.

David Powell

April 11, 2018

Very sorry for your loss, Guy.

Irene Berestetsky

April 10, 2018

Barbara was a wonderful person and UNICEF colleague. Beautiful soul inside and out. Deepest condolences to the family.

Catherine and Peter

April 10, 2018

Barb always had such a lovely smile and warm hello. Thinking of you all, Guy, Isabelle and Nathalie and condolences to you and your family.

April 10, 2018

Barbara and I worked together side by side for many years at UNICEF Canada. She was a wonderful friend to me. Always encouraging. Always supportive. Always so very kind.
There are no words to express the loss of such a wonderful friend. To Guy, Isabelle and Nathalie please know you are in my thoughts and prayers at this time. Jackie Jones

Lisa Levy

April 10, 2018

So sorry for your loss Guy. I have found memories of Barbara playing on the Unnaturals. What fun we all had!

You're in my thoughts. Take care of yourself.

Lynne Martin

April 10, 2018

Guy,my thoughts and prayers
are with you and your family at this very difficult time.I am grateful I was able to visit with her at Aunt Ruby's birthday.Barbara was a wonderful person.

Margie Sumadh

April 9, 2018

So sorry for your loss Guy. How fortunate to have such a legacy and memories for yourself and for your girls.

Karen Stolte

April 9, 2018

I knew Barbara for the better part of 10 years while in the role of Isabelle's piano teacher. We kept in touch when that form of relationship came to an end. I struggle to imagine that she isn't here any longer. She was such a light. Full of loving kindness. Her strength and courage were an inspiration and shall love on in her wonderful daughters. All our love to you Guy, Isabelle, and Nathalie.

Angela Rose

April 9, 2018

I had the pleasure of growing up nextdoor to Barbara, Guy and the girls. Barbara was always kind and loving. I have so many great memories from my childhood of talking over the backyard fence, and running over to play. More recently, I saw Barbara's strength and wisdom, especially in her poetry. Barbara was truly a good person and I'm grateful to have known her. My deepest condolences to Guy, Isabelle and Nathalie

Geneviève Lafaury

April 9, 2018

De tout coeur avec vous, mes pensées et mes prières vous accompagnent. Qu'elles vous soutiennent et vous apportent un peu de réconfort dans cette épreuve. Je me souviendrai toujours de la gentillesse et du magnifique sourire de Barbara. Qu'elle repose en paix et continue à veiller sur vous!

Mario Gagnon

April 9, 2018

I will always remember Barbara's radiant smile. We met though daycare where Isabelle and our son played together. That was before Nathalie was born. Although we did not have the chance to see each other very often in the last couple years, we always enjoyed the company of Guy, Barbara and the girls. We wish offer our sincere condolences to the family.
Je me rappellerai toujours du sourire chaleureux de Barbara. Nous nous sommes rencontrés lorsqu'Isabelle et notre fils jouaient ensemble à la garderie. C'était avant la naissance de Nathalie. Malgré que nous ne sommes pas vus très souvent ces dernières années, nous avons toujours grandement apprécié la compagnie de Guy, de Barbara et des filles. Nous souhaitons offrir nos sympathies les plus sincères à toute la famille.

April 9, 2018

Sincere sympathies to Barbara's family. I had the honour of knowing and working with Barbara at Unicef Canada. She was always kind and a friend to all that she met. Heaven is a bit brighter for her presence. She brightened the life of all who knew her. Her grace and strength was inspiring. May she rest in Peace and may her light shine on and on in the heart of those who loved her.

April 9, 2018

To Guy, Ethel, and the family of Barbara, on behalf of the Master, and brethren of Maple Leaf Lodge we sincerely send you our deepest sympathies and condolences.

Joan Charras-Sancho

April 9, 2018

I met Barbara as a small kid in France and we lived one year in the same place. She was kind and funny. I'm grateful she had such an inspiring and positive life.

Mary Foster

April 8, 2018

Although we knew each other mostly through her sister Susan & met Barbara only a few times, I experienced her genuine kindness and sincerity with the way her eyes searched through to your soul when she talked with you. I feel she had a way of showing Gods love to everyone she met.

Danielle Da pont

April 8, 2018

Barbara qui a habité chez moi avec ma fille Joan toute petite, à Strasbourg pour etudier le français et qui déjà était lumineuse et pure... destinée à oeuvrer pour l humanité et Aimer. Toute ma tendresse à sa famille, et comme je l ecrivais à Barbara, il mecplait de la retrouver derrière les étoiles....

Cathie Guthrie

April 8, 2018

I'm so deeply saddened by Barbara's passing. I have so many fond memories of our work together at UNICEF. Barbara was a great gift to those of us who had the pleasure of working with her. Nathalie, Isabelle and Guy, I'm so sorry that you will be going forward without her by your side. With much fondness,

Jill Rose

April 8, 2018

Barbara was a rare soul, so caring, so loving, so wise and brave beyond words.

April 8, 2018

Dear Guy - We just reconnected at Aunt Ruby's 80th Birthday. A special time for me .Barbara has held a special spot in my heart..She will be dearly missed. May the Angels keep you and the girls strong
Patty Wainwright ❣.

Geraldine Charpentier (smagghe)

April 8, 2018

Cher Guy, nous nous joignons en priere avec vous pour que la main du Seigneur puisse vous donner sa paix que Barbara est bien aupres de lui, et que son onction puisse apaiser votre douleur de la separation, et vous donner la force de passer cette epreuve toi et tes filles. Nous ne la connaissions pas, mais tout ce que nous avons pu lire à son sujet est un temoignage puissant de l'amour de Dieu dans son coeur.
Toutes nos sympathies et affection

Veronica Utton

April 8, 2018

Guy - My heartfelt condolences to you and your entire family for your loss. Barbara was a special soul and she will live on in the memories that you each cherish of her. Wishing you continued strength, peace and comfort for the coming days and weeks ahead.

April 8, 2018

Dear Guy, Isabelle, and Nathalie. We were so very sorry to hear of Barbara's passing. She always lit up the Eastminster sanctuary with her warm smile and sparkling eyes. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you. Take good care. Jimmy Simon, Raymond Storey, & Wilfred Storey

Bernard Smagghe

April 8, 2018

Barbara,
Tant de gentillesse et de courage, une inspiration pour tous. Grand soleil en nos jours, maintenant repose bien parmi les étoiles inspirantes que l'on admire...

Keith McDonald

April 8, 2018

We have many memories of your great contributions to the world. This means you have left a legacy of action and hope and inspiration for others who follow.

Eszter and family Varga

April 8, 2018

Dear Barbara
We wish you to rest in peace.

Eszter and Family Varga

April 8, 2018

our deepest sympathy, we are so sorry for your loss.

Gary Kenny

April 8, 2018

Guy, I am so sorry to hear this very sad news. I know how deeply you loved and cared for Barbara and I'm sure she felt blessed that you held her in your warm, loving and tender embrace during these past challenging years.

Allan Calma

April 8, 2018

Guy, my thoughts are with you and pray that God give you and your family strength in this very difficult time.

Jason Hubbard

April 8, 2018

Barbara was a truly special lady. The world is a sadder place without her.

Carolyne Bayly

April 8, 2018

Guy, Isabelle and Nathalie, my sincerest sympathies for your loss. I know Barb was an amazing Wife and Mother and she was a great friend to me. I am so fortunate to have known her and to have had the great pleasure of her friendship and counsel over the years. I know her wisdom and kindness will live on in all that she touched. With love, Carolyne

Emma Strang

April 7, 2018

Barbara was such a strong, caring, intelligent and all around wonderful woman. Her passing leaves a hole in our family, that can never be filled. I will always remember her and the courage and strength she had. I was blessed to be able to have her in my life, and call her my aunt.
xo Barbara, rest in peace.
Lots of love to Guy, Isabelle and Nathalie.

Aynsley Morris

April 7, 2018

Barbara was my mentor, my cherished friend and a guiding light in my life. I love her dearly and will always carry her wisdom and her caring spirit in my heart. I am so fortunate to have had her in my life.

Jim Campbell

April 7, 2018

I had the great pleasure of living beside and getting to know Barbara, Guy and the girls while on Queensdale Avenue. Barbara always had a smile or a kind word. We laughed together and on occasion even cried together. I shall miss her deeply but am better for having known her. She has left behind a great legacy for Guy, Isabelle and Nathalie and all those that had the privilege of knowing her.

Rachel Warden

April 7, 2018

Dear Guy, My heart goes out to you and your girls. I am so, so sorry.
Rachel

Siobhan, Liam and Hannah Donaghy

April 7, 2018

Dear Guy, Isabelle and Nathalie,
We are deeply shocked and saddened with the news of Barbara's death. We send wishes of comfort and peace in the hope that you will be continually surrounded by those who provide unwavering love and support, and who will help to ease the burden of your grief. Sending our sincere love and prayers at this difficult time for you all.
God Bless.

Meg French

April 7, 2018

I am so sad to hear this news. I worked with Barbara at UNICEF Canada and she was always so kind to everyone and committed to making the world better for children. I wish all who knew Barbara peace during this time.

Deborah McNorgan

April 7, 2018

Dear Guy, Nathalie and Isabelle; Ethel, Susan and Don and families: We are so blessed to have loved and learned from this extraordinary woman. Barbara has had and will continue to have a profound impact on us. We pray that this, combined with the ongoing love and support of family and friends, will comfort and sustain you always.

With deepest sympathy,
Debbie, Claire and Sean

Sepkje Lind

April 7, 2018

Our deepest condolences to you with prayers for your daughters in this great loss of their Mother. also wishing you the strength only Jesus can give you.

April 7, 2018

Dear Barbara,
God doesn't promise us skies that will always be blue ... or flower strewn paths, our whole life through!
What He does promise is strength to get us through each day ... rest for the weary and light to guide our way ... grace to get us through daily trials with His help .... and always
His unfailing sympathy and love!
.... as Grandma would say, Barbara ...
"Safe Trip Home!"
Love,
Aunt Ruby


what he

karen snider leiva

April 7, 2018

I'm sending my heartfelt condolences to Guy and the girls. I'm truly sorry for your loss.
Barbara hired me in my first job in the humanitarian sector, and I'm thankful for her confidence and mentorship. She was a kind and compassionate woman- a true champion for children around the world.

Lisa Wolff

April 7, 2018

My deepest condolences to all who knew and loved Barbara. I had the privilege of working with Barbara at UNICEF Canada and will always be grateful for her kindness, steadiness, integrity and dedication. Barbara will certainly be missed by all whose lives she touched.

Tom Koruna

April 7, 2018

Dear Mrs. Strang, Susan, Don & family.
I was so saddened by the news of Barbara's passing. Please accept my deepest condolences.

Bella Liyanage

April 7, 2018

Words cannot express how much Barbara meant to me, she is now in heaven continuing to look down especially on her family and friends with her tender loving and caring eyes.Barbara will never be forgotten she will always be in our hearts. - Bella

Rick Helary

April 7, 2018

Very sorry to hear of your loss

Regards
Rick Helary

Margaret Sadler

April 7, 2018

I am so sorry for your loss, Guy. I will be remembering you and daughters in my prayers.

Rev. Daniel Cho

April 7, 2018

My deepest, most sincere condolences to you and your family, Guy. My heart goes out to you in your time of loss and grief. What a beautiful servant of Christ Barbara was in her dedication to lifting up and empowering God's children. Know that we are joined in tender mercies through our common bond in Christ. May you be supported and encouraged by the comfort of God through the words, sentiments and actions of all those who care about you. I will keep your family in my most earnest prayers. God's peace be with you.

Anny Coens

April 7, 2018

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

kerry max

April 7, 2018

Guy, my sincere condolences. I wish you and your daughters courage in the difficult days to come. Sending you love.
Kerry

Bernard Smagghe

April 7, 2018

Joel THOMAS

April 7, 2018

I am not sure there are some right words except that I don't stop thinking of you: Barbara, Guy, Isabelle and Nathalie.
I always admired Barbara kindness, courage and dignity.
Please receive all my love and support.
We are there for you....today and tomorrow.
Joel and family.

Ernest & Helen Saar

April 7, 2018

We remember Barbara as part of the 296 Gang at Queens and have fond memories as parents who visited and brought complete Sunday dinners for the group. Through Maureen and John we have followed her life and struggles. She is now at peace and in the loving arms of Her Saviour and Lord.

Susan Strang

April 7, 2018

My dear sister is already missed! But our memories will live on.... like when she decided to take up the French horn! I must say her piano practice was easier to listen to.love you lots.
Your legacy will live on in the language of music your family will continue to speak. xo

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