It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Barb at the age of 81 years. Barb is preceded in death by her husband, Charles “Charlie” Gruszie; her partner, Rune Axelson; sister, Shirley Miller; brother, Johnny Nathorst; and parents, John and Mabel (Jones) Nathorst. She is survived by six brothers, Allen Nathorst, Jim (Ric) Nathorst, Charles (Cheryl) Nathorst, Jerry Nathorst, Rick Nathorst, David (Jackie) Nathorst, and their families; her adopted family, Kirk and Lorrie (Axelson) Frandsen, Brent Axelson, Shelley Axelson, and their families; and many other family and friends who will sadly miss her. Barb grew up the third child, second daughter to seven brothers and one sister in Wynndel, BC. She had many happy memories of fishing and swimming in the creek, picking blueberries, being a daddy’s girl, and dirt floors in the house. Next was Port Alberni, BC, where she became the youngest and only the third woman manager of Bata Shoes (which was the world’s largest at that time). It was in Port Alberni that she met Charlie, and they were married on June 18, 1977, in Creston, BC. They then moved to Cranbrook, BC, for eight years and then to Medicine Hat, where she has since resided. Barb was employed by Medalta Ford Tractor for 8 1/2 years and Southern Car & Trailer Sales for 2 1/2 years before retiring and enjoying golfing, crochet, crafts, gardening, puzzles, reading, and a good game of crib. Barb will be remembered for her sense of humor, her bubbly personality, her feistiness, her talent for crafts and crochet, and her love of the color pink. At Barb’s request, there will not be a formal service. Cremation has taken place, and her ashes will be spread in BC at a later date. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Barbara Gruszie.

• Date : 2025-06-30
• Location : Medicine Hat

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