Barbara Bain

Barbara Ann Bain (1929 - 2021)

On August 16th a light went out with the passing of Barbara Ann Bain (nee Watkins), beloved wife of Raymond and mother of David. Married 57 years, Barbara’s life was marked by a generosity of spirit, and attention to the needs of others. Born into a Toronto of 600,000 Barbara grew to become as varied as her city, with regular childhood visits to the family’s Montreal ancestral roots.

Her love of tennis was pivotal to her life. After high school and a little work, she sailed to Europe with three girlfriends. Their planned European trip later became an extended solo stay in London, and it was tennis that led to time at Dublin horse races, Royal Navy balls and ballet attendances.

On her return to Toronto it was racket sport that led to meeting Raymond Bain, an instant soulmate, soon husband and travel quickly became central to their life. The birth of their beloved son David was Barbara’s entry into advocacy and her role proved pivotal. She had a quiet strength and was selfless in her desire to help people. She was a strong advocate of the Down Syndrome Research Foundation where she served on the Board for many years. A long-time activist for Down Syndrome, two highlights were receiving a generous Special Olympics donation from the Blue Jays at the Sky Dome centre field and attending the Vancouver grand opening of the Down Syndrome Research Foundation Building. Despite a cancer diagnosis, Barb volunteered years on daffodils fundraising campaigns in Toronto’s office towers and the OMEGA MEG imaging system as well as being the central care provider for her cousin.

As David’s athletic accomplishments expanded, together they nurtured a love of viewing tennis and it became their enduring pastime. For 30 years they owned a home in Midtown Toronto with wonderful neighbours, as well as David’s beloved cottage along Georgian Bay. Travel included cruises, especially the QEII, but also touring Chile by car and climbing a 3,000 meter volcano. For years they attended American car rallies with their wonderful car “Monty”. Barbara had a life well lived, and leaves an adoring and admiring circle of family and friends. She was predeceased by her brother Frank and is survived by Ray and David.

Barbara will be dearly missed by her Calgary family of Glynn Davis, and her Montreal families of Craig & Lawrence Davis and the family of long-time family friend Gil Broude.

Barbara's family would like to extend their sincere thanks and appreciation to the caregivers at Bridgepoint Active Healthcare where Barbara resided for the past 2 years, and Toronto General Hospital for their dedicated and compassionate care in her last days. Cremation has already taken place and there will be a private family celebration of life in the future. In Barbara’s memory, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.