Barbara Garden

Barbara Jean Garden passed on February 6, 2022. She was born September 13, 1939 in Toronto, Canada. She left high school at the age of 16 to work multiple jobs and allow for emancipation at her young age. She later met and married Ernest Garden; together they adopted two boys, Richard and Robert. In 1968, the family left Canada and settled in San Juan Capistrano, California. Ernie and Barbara divorced in 1972. She continued to raise her kids while working as a grocery checker at the Vons Grocery Store in Capistrano Beach Ca.

Despite her lack of education, she eventually oversaw the comprehensive financials of the large store. She prided herself as being the fastest checker ever employed. She was a home person and was always there for her boys. Through her hard work, selflessness, and utter commitment to the family, she provided a story book upbringing. Although entirely unsuited for, and altogether hating every moment, she took us camping, fishing, motorcycle riding and surfing. She was a legend among our friends whose parents simply could not compare to her efforts. She was everything to us.

Later in life, she became an incredible grandmother to three grandsons. Each Friday was “Nana Day.” These days were special, pre-planned, and involved lots of arts and crafts. Never one to be defined by convention, her daughter-in law had to have the “talk” with Nana after one Friday, as the boys reported Nana had used words that were naughty — she also used the middle finger, on occasion, to much hilarity. She was a bit rough around the edges, which was simply the product of her upbringing; however, all her roughness paled in comparison to the love she brought us all. She was one-of-kind and she will be missed beyond words.

She passed five minutes after spending the entire morning with her family during which multiple I love yous were spoken. Do not ever doubt the spiritual aspect of passing from this world, biology fails miserably to explain such a coincidence in timing.

She is survived by her sons Richard and Robert; daughter in law Angie; grandsons Kellen, Kyler (Kyler’s significant other Kailee Winterlin) and Kaden. She had a special love for her lifelong friends Jan, Evon and LuDean.

Rest in peace, Mom. We will love you forever.