MRS. ESTHER BARBY of Coaldale, beloved wife of the late Otto Barby, passed away peacefully at the Coaldale Health Centre on Friday, July 4, 2008 at the age of 97 years.

Esther was born in Granum, AB on October 26, 1910 and grew up on the family farm in Travers, AB. She married Otto Barby in 1937. They lived in Granum, Olds, Claresholm, Nobleford and Lethbridge. She was a wonderful Mother, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother. Her greatest joy was raising her family. She loved to cook, bake and knit for all of her loved ones. Esther also loved her flower and vegetable gardens and spent many hours canning and preserving her and Otto's fresh produce. She spent over 30 years selling Avon products in Nobleford and Lethbridge. Her love of music was evident when she would break out in a song whenever possible, even through all her years at the Coaldale Health Centre.

Esther is survived by her children Wyonne Spring, Irvin Barby, Terry (Karen) Barby; grandchildren Bob (Joycelyn) Odney, Perry Odney, Barb Odney, Trish Spring, Doug Odney, Michelle Barby, Troy Barby; 8 great grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families. Besides her loving husband Otto, Esther was predeceased by her parents Alfred and Mary Lyon; siblings Oswald Lyon, Hilma Brown and Annabelle Parslow.

A Private Family Graveside Service will be held at Archmount Cemetery, with Pastor Richard Brown, officiating.