Barbara Lee Dirk (Tait)

December 9, 1929 - February 16, 2024

In loving memory ~

Barbara Lee Dirk (Tait) was born on December 9th, 1929 in Meota, Saskatchewan and passed away peacefully on February 16th, 2024 at the age of 94 years. Barb was the youngest child of four born to Louisa and David Tait. Barb met Cecil in Meota, and they were married on May 11th, 1950, and they celebrated 71 years together. They moved out west to Grande Prairie and then on to permanently settle in Vernon. Family always came first, and she absolutely loved her 12 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. Her home was a busy hub of activity. She was very organized and hosted many family celebrations over the years at their Coldstream home, creating many special warm memories for all.

Barb had many passions besides her family, that kept her very busy. She loved singing as well as playing the piano. She sang in many choirs in the community, the United Church, Okanagan Symphony choir, Scott Singers and was a frequent soloist at church, weddings, and celebration of lives. Art was pure enjoyment for her, and she painted many beautiful pictures of landscapes, family and anything that captured her eye. She spent many happy hours in the art studio that Cecil built for her. She was an active member of the Okanagan Artist league and was an exhibitor in many Art Shows. She volunteered in the community, helping at local schools as an accompanist or choir leader, Community concert Association, and the United Church. She designed the 6 stained glass windows, depicting the life of Christ in the United Church sanctuary. She was active with the United Church Women's Silver Star Unit and her faith was her guide and anchor.

Barb loved her home and garden and she was able to remain in her home right up to 1 month before she passed. She touched many lives with her love and generosity, and she will be greatly missed by all.

She is predeceased by her husband, Cecil Dirk, two brothers, Douglas, and Winston Tait and one sister, Noreen Craig. She is survived by her sons, Doug Dirk (Chris), Bruce Dirk (Tracy), Jane Hein (Robert), Elaine Viel (James), her much loved grandchildren, Megan Lange (Ted), Mike Dirk (Bonita), Ben Dirk, Daneille Kanamala (Ashwin), Ryan Dirk, Christy Lucas, Greg Hein (Hana), Cory Hein (Karla) Jeff Viel, Huston Viel (Georgia), Jessica Ryckman (Tyler), and Bryce Viel (Meghan) and all her great grandchildren.

A Celebration of life will be held at Trinity United Church at 11am on March 23, 2024. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation.