Obituaries

Barbara Irene (Kinnie) Rhymer, 95, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2020 at Glasgow Hall, Parkland at the Lakes in Dartmouth. Born in Wolfville, NS, she was the daughter of the late Nina (Jones) and Clarence Kinnie. Barb always had fond memories of growing up in Yarmouth. It was here during World War II while working as a stenographer at East Camp, she would meet her future husband Ronald, who was stationed there as a pilot in the RNVR Fleet Air Arm. At war’s end, Barb travelled to England by way of banana boat to rejoin her husband and meet her new in-laws. It was during this time she gave birth to their first child. They returned to NS in 1947.

Barb had many interests; she loved a game of cards, a challenging Scrabble game, and belonged to several bridge clubs. She enjoyed bowling, golf, camping and travelling. Her knitting, sewing skills, needlepoint and cross-stitch creations were admired by many. She was a great fan of jigsaw puzzles, spending countless hours putting them together only to discover the last few pieces missing, which would eventually be found in her housecoat pocket or under a chair cushion. Barb was an avid gardener, blessed with a green thumb, especially with African violets. She loved flowers and enjoyed spending time in her rock garden.

Barb had a great sense of style, even when accessorized with one of her many aprons. She was a marvelous cook with a vast collection of recipes. Everyone was welcomed to her table to enjoy a great meal, whether invited or unexpected guest. Her delicious baked goods were delightfully received by family and friends.

As a proud member of Beta Sigma Phi for over 60 years, Barb held several positions and was involved in many activities, including volunteering at the Camp Hill Hospital and NS Rehabilitation Centre. Always known for her abundant energy, her family and friends often referred to her as the Energizer Bunny. Barb took great pride in being a devoted stay-at-home mother. After raising her children, she returned to work as receptionist with her husband until their retirement in 1993. Well into her seventies, Barb enjoyed trips to the United States, Ireland, Scotland, England and Caribbean cruises. At the age of 80, she traveled alone to Poland to visit her daughter Wendy and son-in-law Michel.

Barb was a member of Port Wallis United Church, Dartmouth. Cremation has taken place. Due to the pandemic there will be no visitation. Private interment will take place at Dartmouth Memorial Gardens at a later date. The family wishes to express our sincere gratitude to the staff at Glasgow Hall, especially the Lawrencetown floor, for their kindness and caring devotion over the past two years.

Barb is lovingly remembered by daughters Wendy (Michel) Landreville, and Susan (Dave Bell) Rhymer, both of Dartmouth; grandchildren Christine (Curtis) Eaton, NY, Stephen (Stephanie) Landreville, FL., Anna Rhymer, ON. , and Emily (Joel) Denton, NS. She was the cherished great-grandmother of Chelsey, Ariel, Cailey, Ella, Josephine, Elijah, Jack and Maddoc. Lovingly known as Gigi, she adored every moment spent with them. They were her pride and joy.

Barb was predeceased by her husband Dr. Ronald Rhymer (1994); sons, Steven (Liz), and John (Alice Barrett).

Arrangements have been entrusted to Donald K. Walker Funeral Home, Dartmouth. To celebrate and honour a life well lived, please take a moment to recall a fond memory of Barb that brings a smile to your face.