Obituary of Maria Barreiro Arrebola

November 6, 1934 – Santiago De Compostela, Spain

December 9, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Maria Arrebola-Barreiro on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the age of 90 years, in Calgary, AB. She was born in Santiago De Compostela, Spain, on November 6, 1934, to Maria and Jose Barreiro. She grew up in Madrid, a self-proclaimed "daddy's girl", and she loved telling stories about her esteemed Police Chief father. 

Maria was a devoted wife to Juan Arrebola-Moral for 65 years and a loving mother to her daughter, Ana Maria Bird. She was also a proud grandmother to Alex and Ella Bird. Maria had a passion for music and great Spanish food. After her annual six-month-long vacation in Roquetas De Mar, Spain, she would bring home with her a refreshed excitement for sharing the amazing recipes and customs from where she was born. Her hobbies, which included crocheting, colouring, reading, cooking, and baking, were enthusiastically passed down to two generations. Her matriarchal mastery will live on in the fond memories of everyone who knew Maria. 

She was a dog whisperer, had a green thumb, and a mother's touch. Maria loved all children—her own and any other babies she could get her hands on. Along with her daughter Ana, she helped raise several of her nephews, friends' children, and her grandchildren. 

One of Maria's favourite memories was becoming a Canadian citizen in 1984. She studied tirelessly for weeks for the exam with her husband Juan. Ana would quiz them both and would help them polish their English. Maria was overjoyed to become a part of the country she moved her family to and loved.

Maria is survived by her beloved sisters, Josie Cristobal and Loli Escuerdo. She leaves behind her doggy, Luca, as well as the memories of all her precious pets, Sparky, Bobby, and Husky. 

Maria will be most remembered for the love she spread through her laughter, her tireless love, her strong spirit, and everything she created, crafted, and cooked for her family.  

The family would like to express their gratitude and condolences to all the family and friends who have been a part of Maria's life but can not attend the service in Calgary. 

"Those we love can never be more than a thought away, for as long as there's a memory, they live in our hearts to stay."

- Unknown

A Celebration of Maria’s Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Eastside, 5388 Memorial Drive NE, Calgary, AB) on Friday, December 20, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home.  

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

In living memory of Maria Arrebola, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Eastside, 5388 Memorial Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2A 3V9, Telephone: 403-248-8585.

Click to View the Memorial Card for Maria Arrebola