BROWN Barbara Janet (11 January 1964 -15 October 2007) Peacefully but far too soon, at the age of forty-three Barb passed away suddenly at St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, on Monday, October 15th, 2007. Barb was above-all a decent human being a committed activist and educator, a fine friend, a charming, smart, often irreverent and always complex woman. She leaves behind many family members, friends sand colleagues who are shocked and grieved by her sudden death, notably her beloved husband Mike Dumler, parents Lois and Dave, sisters Lynn and Catherine (Larry), brother Gordon, great-uncle Walt, aunts Joan, Marion and Donalda, and many cousins. Barb was raised in Burnaby, graduating from Burnaby North Secondary in 1981, and going on to an outstanding career of studies at Simon Fraser University. Completing a Master's of Arts (English) in 1992, Barb began her career as an instructor of English and Women's Studies, teaching at Okanagan University-College (Kelowna) and College of the Rockies (Cranbrook), before corning home in 1998 to teach at SFU's English Language Institute. Barb found her real vocation working in the labour movement, starting with her role as head of the Faculty Association at College of the Rockies. Shortly after returning to Vancouver, she moved from post-secondary education into full-time union work, first with the Canadian Union of Public Employees, then with the Federation of Post-Secondary Educators, where she was working at the time of her death. In both posts, she used her articulate, persuasive intelligence and her compassion to advocate for workers' rights and dignity. Barb was blessed in love and family as well. For the past six years, she found home and happiness in the love of husband Mike. Together, they shared many passions for social justice, for family and friends, for books and folk music, for ''the boys'' (Rebus and Theo), and fat travel to hot, sunny places. Barb quickly grew to love Mike's three children, Aaron. Matthew and Michelle, and they her. She also took to heart her role as ''Auntie Barb'' to Meg Stainsby's daughters Tillie and Erin, whom she also loved. A memorial service to honour and celebrate her life will be held Thursday, October 25, 2007, at 2 pm, at the Operating Engineers' Hall, 4333 Ledger Avenue, Burnaby. Gordon Laird presiding. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barb's honour to the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (note ''BC Solutions Fund''), 1400-207 West Hastings, Vancouver, BC, V6B 1H7. Kearney Funeral Services 604-736-0268