Lillian Ilene (née Valutis) Barrett, 1936 – 2021

Lillian Ilene Barrett (Valutis) passed away suddenly
at the Barrie Memorial Hospital in Ormstown, Quebec,
on April 16, 2021, in her 85^th year.

She leaves to mourn her beloved husband of 61 years Ronald Barrett, her children Wendy (Robert), Sheri (Philippe), Leslie (Sally) and Timothy, her cherished grandchildren Vanessa (David), Roxanne (Eric), Elisha (Bryan), Bryana (Eric), Alexandre (Jess), Nicholas (Sarah) and treasured great-grandchildren Eden, Declan and Dallas. She also leaves behind a much loved sister Anita (Elmer), several nieces and nephews and many friends. Lillian was predeceased by her parents Casper and Anna (Biskis) and her sister Berta (Frank Visockas).

Lillian was born on October 5, 1936 the middle of three daughters born to Lithuanian Canadian parents and raised in and around the Sudbury, Ontario area.

She met her future husband Ronald when he was temporarily assigned to Inco Sudbury from his native Montreal. After exchanging vows in Lachine, Quebec, their first child was born in Sudbury and they soon returned to Montreal to reside, where their next three children were born.

Lillian was a dedicated volunteer at Christ Church Anglican in Beaurepaire, Quebec, running many rummage sales, becoming president of the ACW Friendly Group and helping to run their catering venture. She later opened her own successful catering business which showcased her natural culinary talent and skills.

After moving to the Chateauguay Valley and starting a farm with her husband, Lillian became the owner of Rosie’s Consignment Store in Ormstown, Quebec, a true pioneer in the now thriving vintage, used clothing, books and household items market. She ran the store for 30 years, becoming a much loved friend and confidante to many of her customers.

During her final years at Rosie’s and after retirement, Lillian and Ronald enjoyed travel, especially cruising, ultimately visiting 75 countries, many more than once. Throughout her years, Lillian was a devoted wife and mother but especially cherished her promotion to Granny, a position which quickly became her favourite.  She was never happier than when her grandchildren visited or spent the day at Rosie’s with her. Granny and Poppa took them on several trips as well, instilling her love of travel with them.

Lillian’s life story would not be complete without mention of the great love she had for all animals and especially all of the pussycats that she rescued and lavished her love on.

The Barrett family wishes to give special thanks to Dr. John Hortop
for the extraordinary care that he gave Lillian over the years. We also wish
to extend our greatest appreciation to the Nurses of the CLSC,
the Nurses and Staff of the Barrie Memorial Hospital
and her dedicated caregiver Jessica Bergevin.

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As an expression of sympathy, the family would welcome donations made to
the Women’s Auxiliary of the Barrie Memorial Hospital, Ormstown, QC J0S 1K0,
or made by e-transfer at dabarriememorial@gmail.com,
so that they can continue their wonderful work.