Mary Elizabeth Barnes (nee Coutts)

With great sadness, we announce the passing of our mother, Mary Barnes, at the age of 95.

She is survived by her brother- John Coutts (Ann), children- Susan Barnes, Don Barnes (Lyn), grandchildren- Jerrett Barnes, Lori Abrams (Curtis), and great-grandson- Bennett Abrams. Mary was pre-deceased by her brother- Robert (Bob) Coutts, former husband of 25 years- T. Donald Barnes, and her daughter- Nancy Barnes.

Mom was born in Toronto and lived a full life hosting gatherings at the cottage and home, traveling the world and enjoying her many sports- sailing, skiing, running, and tennis. At 50, she graduated with an R.N. and worked part-time as a nurse in Senior’s home until “the call of the mountains” lured her west to the Bow Valley in 1999.

Mary absolutely loved downhill skiing which led her to become a downhill ski instructor. She was able to share her passion by teaching skiing for more than 25 years with various ski schools (in the East & West) until she retired as a full-time ski instructor in Banff at 75 years old! Mom’s perfect ending to her ski career was going to Norquay for her final ski afternoon to celebrate her 90th birthday!

Thank you to the Bow River Seniors lodge for their care and compassion for the past 7 years.

A Celebration of Mary’s life will be announced at a future date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Bow Valley SPCA.