Ramona Laura Barthel

Laura Barthel passed away peacefully on Tuesday May 5, 2015 in Bellingham at Hospice House. Ramona was born December 14^th 1929 in Vancouver B.C. She was preceded in death by her parents, and four of her siblings and her dear husband, Leo. She was the fifth of six children.  She always loved to read and spend time with her younger brother, Buddy. She loved animals and was an independent woman. Her hobbies included cake decorating, knitting, and sewing amoung other things.  Above all she enjoyed  spending time with her family.

Ramona’s mother, Marion, died of cancer when Ramona was 13. After that Ramona lived with her brothers, Bert and Buddy. Later she moved to a receiving home and eventually on her own when she was 14.  She was a hard worker beginning with her first job at the Aristocrat restaurant under the supervision of Mr. Churchfield, who took her under his wing, and watched over her.  Ramona loved people and they loved her in return.  She started a childhood friendship with Ruby and Lillian when they attended Queen Mary Grade School in North Vancouver.  They remained close friends their whole lives.  Ramona had many life adventures which her family and friends loved to hear her tell.  She came to know the Lord when she was 12 years old and over the years that relationship grew.  Ramona always said the Lord and his Angels watched over her throughout her life.  Ramona met Leo at a dance at the Alexander Club in Vancouver.  It was love at first sight and six months later they were married in June of 1953. In 1956 they had Leigh and then Linda in 1958.

Mom worked for Walton Beverage for 45 years as Office Manager then later as Human Resource Manager.  Ramona dearly loved and appreciated the Walton family, and in return they have treated her and her entire family well.  She eventually retired from Walton Beverage, (twice), and moved to Birch Bay in 2008.  Ramona and Leo were involved at Immanuel Bible Church for years. When Ramona’s health began to fail she began attending Cornwall Church with her daughters. During the years as Ramona’s health and vision declined, she always was a loving and gracious lady of God.  

Ramona leaves behind: her daughter Leigh, (Wayne) Lingbloom; grandsons David, Jon and his fiancé Nicole. Daughter, Linda, (Don) Rudy; granddaughters Laura and Kristin. Her brother, Buddy and dear friend Ruby. She also leaves behind a sister in law, Dolores, brother in law, Roy, and many nieces, nephews and so many friends and people whose lives she touched.

In place of flowers, please donate to Whatcom Hospice House. The family would like to thank the nursing staff and volunteers who provided loving care and support to Ramona and her family