Barbara Start

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barbara Patricia Start (nee Dale) surrounded by her family at peopleCare Tavistock on Sunday October 19, 2025 in her 92nd year. Dear Mother of Gale Pollock (Ron), Diane Kleer (Walter), Paul Start (Tracy) and Kelly Cole (Jeff). Loved Grandmother of Ashley (Geoff), Chelsey (Chris), Miranda (Luke), Vanessa (Jon), Lauren (Drew) and Mackenzie. Cherished GG of Jake, Whitney, Edith, Rowyn and Lucas. Dear sister of Mary Ovington, Sister-in-law of Catherine Furlong (Bob), Barbara Logan and Wayne Brown. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by Howard, her husband of 55 years, her son Dale Edward “Ted” Start, parents Arthur and Bernice Dale, sister Helen Gee, brothers Arthur Dale (Margaret) and Bill Dale and brother-in-law Raymond Ovington. Parents-in-law Douglas and Beulah Start, brother and sister-in-laws Audrey Sulston (Al), George Start (Kay), Earl Start (Jean), Mac Logan and Donna Brown.

Barbara had a lifelong love of music having sung in various church choirs, the last being Knox Presbyterian Church in Woodstock. She also sang with the Sweet Adelines chapters in Stratford and London and the Woodstock Choralaires.

Barbara and Howard shared a deep love for family. She leaves behind many beautiful memories and cherished moments. Her recent greatest joy was time spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her family will always remember her for her generous heart marked by love, forgiveness and a witty sense of humor and how she approached life with grace and warmth, finding joy in simple pleasures.

A special thank you to Oxford Gardens, Woodstock Hospital, Dr. W. George and peopleCare Tavistock for their compassion and care during this time. If you so desire, donations to Knox Presbyterian Church  or Woodstock Hospital Foundation would be appreciated.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday October 22, 2025 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm at Brock and Visser Funeral Home (845 Devonshire Ave). A funeral service will take place on Thursday October 23, 2025 at 11 am at Knox Presbyterian Church (59 Riddell St. Woodstock). Interment at Hillview Cemetery.