Obituary of Barbara Tanner (nee Fisher)

December 28, 1933 – Hillspring, Alberta

May 10, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Barbara spent much of her early years in Alberta until she married Benjamin Franklin Tanner in 1955 and moved to Toronto, ON, where she had four children – Connie Ruth, Elizabeth Ann, Nathan Benjamin, and John Robert. She spent many years at their farmhouse in Caledon Hills; a place that she loved so much.

Every summer she enjoyed her second home, a cottage in Waterton Lakes National Park, where her love of the mountains and hiking were, I believe, her greatest passion. She entertained many friends and family members there, including her children and grandchildren.

 
Barbara was an excellent cook, gourmet even. She enjoyed a great recipe and fresh Alberta produce, where she created the best cookies, cakes, and meals we all will remember fondly; this is particularly true for her grandchildren. Ask any of them – they each have their favorite moments dining with her at her cabin, as well as memories filled with hiking and enjoying her kindness and laughter.

 
Barbara had many favorite hikes throughout Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes. She, her brother Gary, and sister-in-law Carole (two of her favorite people) counted 160 miles one summer of hiking magic.

Adored by many, her infectious smile will be one of her greatest gifts that will be with us always.

 
Mother passed on Friday, May 10, 2024, just as the solar stormy skies opened up in all their brightness and sparkle, the Northern Lights shining for her, which does not surprise me.

Your strength, Barbara, and great passion for all the natural beauty this world has to offer, is something we will always remember. 

Love and Peace Mom, kisses and hugs forever Grandma.

Barbara is survived by two siblings Gary Fisher and Dianne Demik (husband Greg); four children Connie Ruth Tanner Dashiell, Elizabeth Ann Tanner, Nathan Benjamin Tanner (wife Diane), and John Robert Tanner (wife Tracey); six grandchildren Tanner Merrill Brittan, Benjamin James Dashiell, Ryan Elizabeth Dashiell, Christina Susan Katherine Dashiell, Noah Shannon Armstrong, Kennedy Catherine Tanner, Haven Craig Tanner and four beautiful great-granddaughters.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Barbara’s family here.

In living memory of Barbara Tanner, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.