With hearts full of love and gratitude for a life so beautifully lived, the family of Barbara Sten shares the news of her passing on April 11th, 2025, at the age of 73. Barb was born on September 26, 1951.
Barb dedicated her life to her family and friends and lived in service to others. There was nothing she enjoyed more than spending time with her children and grandchildren at family gatherings, the lake, or any function that was filled with laughter and joy. She was the heart of every family gathering, bringing warmth and delight with her famous baking, unforgettable hugs, and that radiant smile that would light up any room. She spoiled those she loved with her exceptional baking and had a way of making everyone feel like they were her favourite.
Her infectious smile and pure heart is lovingly remembered by her husband Wilf Sten, her children: Charlene (David), Ricky (Sylvia), Jamie (Garth), stepchildren: Cristy (Lance), Layla (Kelly), siblings: Brian (Gail), Melvin (Gaye), Leon (Charlaine), Annette (Danny), Lynda (Grant), Lionel, Winston, in-laws: Lorraine (Larry), Kenny (Lori), Carol (Rod), Barb (Simon), Sharon and father-in-law, Alfred. Grandma Barb will be missed by numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her mother Ethel; partner Brian Foden; mother-in-law Helen; brothers Lyle, Bruce, Bart; and sister-in-law Yvonne.
The eldest of 11 children, Barb was born and raised in Stump Lake, until she moved to Big River where she lovingly raised her family. In Big River she worked as a homemaker as well as in the housekeeping department at the Big River Hospital. It was during her young adult life that Barb’s skill and love for cooking grew. Hosting and sharing meals with family and friends became a favourite pastime. She loved being around others and spent many hours on the curling rinks in Big River, Park Valley and Ladder Valley where she made friendships that lasted a lifetime.
In the early 80’s Barb cooked in bush camps and then moved to Rosthern where her love of cooking brought her to managing a restaurant kitchen and, of course, making everyone’s day brighter. In Rosthern she was often seen greeting people on the street with a big smile while walking to her favourite store, the Clothes Basket. Later, she took to the road as a truck driver, traveling across Canada and the U.S. with Brian and her faithful dog Sammy—all the while collecting stories she’d later tell.
In 2008 she married Wilf Sten, and they made their home in Rosthern. In 17 short years Barb and Wilf filled their time with trips, camping, visiting friends and family, fishing and watching curling. The highlight of recent years was renting a cabin at Chitek Lake during the last 4 summers. She loved sitting on her dock listening to the loons and delighting in the peace that came with the beauty of nature and being by the water.
In 2023 Barb and Wilf moved to Canwood and she worked alongside Wilf caring for the Housing Authority. She was always baking cupcakes, buns, cakes or soup and dropping them off at school or sharing them with her friends at Golden Acres and Silver Corner. She decorated the street for every holiday or season and the street never looked better because Barb had a way of making everything sparkle! She delivered treats around town dressed up as the Easter Bunny, was infinitely proud of her Irish heritage and took great pride in celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. Barb never missed dressing up for Halloween as she interacted with those who came to her door.
Since moving to Canwood Barb spent time bowling, curling, and going for walks with her crew at Canwood Hall. Barb was the definition of love; she had the innate ability to make you feel special and brighten anyone’s day. Uplifting others filled her heart, and she did so easily and often.
We will Celebrate the Life of Barb on Monday, July 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Canwood Community Hall. In honour of her generous spirit, donations can be made to a charity of your choice.
Family and friends wishing to send online condolences are welcome to visit www.beaulacfuneralhome.com Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home & Crematorium, Tammy Smart, Funeral Director, Canwood, SK. 306-468-2244.