Barbara Lynn Roche

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Barbara Lynn Roche (née Guest) at home, in Vancouver, on March 24, 2026.

Born on February 14, 1948, Barbara was the beloved daughter of David Spencer Guest and Helen Janet Guest (née Couper), both of Winnipeg, MB. Barbara graduated from Kelvin High School and the University of Manitoba. Though life took her to many different places, Barbara remained connected to her Winnipeg roots. In recent years, she split her time between Vancouver and Kimberley, British Columbia.

Barbara was predeceased by her husband, Jim Roche. For the last 8 years she shared her life and enjoyed many happy times with her partner, Ron Whittaker.

Barbara was a devoted and loving Nana. She took great pride in each of her grandchildren and cherished the time they spent together. She had a wide circle of friends and embraced life fully, enjoying time with others through book club, travel, bridge, golf, skiing, and many shared experiences. She was happiest when surrounded by friends and family, whether lakeside at Victoria Beach, MB, in the mountains in Whistler or Kimberley, BC, or enjoying the warmth of Palm Desert.

Volunteering and giving back were an important part of Barbara’s life. She was a dedicated volunteer in every community she called home, supporting organizations including Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, Ronald McDonald House, BC Children’s Hospital cancer ward, and the Kimberley Health Care Auxiliary.

She is lovingly remembered by her sons, David (Crystal) and Jamie (Erin), and her beloved grandchildren, Ava, Cadence, Callum, Avery, and Fiona. She leaves behind her siblings Andrea (Andy), Carol (Randy), Doug (Allison), and her late brother Bruce, and their families. She will be deeply missed by her family, Ron and his family, and all who knew her.

A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held on April 11th, 2026 at 1:30 pm at St. Mary’s Anglican Church (2490 W 37th Ave, Vancouver, BC).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Canuck Place Children’s Hospice or Kimberley Helping Hands Food Bank.