Well said all... those who have posted & those that will follow.... couldnt agree more with your sentiments. She & I were very close indeed, sharing laughter & joy, tears & sorrow, everything imaginable beyond just our mutual love for the game and business of hockey & its history. Working very very closely together for many a year. I knew what was happening, coming, but that really doesnt help much as others have noted.
To so many she was like a Mother Hen, touching peoples lives in meaningful & almost always wonderful ways. She was for many years the glue that held this place together & for that, we all owe her a huge debt of gratitude & thanks. Rare combination of serious IQ, intellect, perception, critical thought, objectivity, empathy, kindness & generosity.... She pushed people to be their best, to think things through critically, analytically. Professor/Student. Absolutely brilliant mind.
She gave it her best shot, always feisty, a fighter but Cancer..... odious killer that takes so very often the best & brightest and here we are yet again. Life, I'm afraid at times... just so unfair..... Godspeed Barbara.... soon all will be revealed... the wonder & beauty of life, of everlasting energy, a journey that is neverending, infinite..... So not farewell but adieu, for we'll meet again. And... thank you. Drop by anytime. I'll know when your around Kiddo... DSOM mysteriously echoing through the old Tannoys..... the sound of a Didgeridoo wafting through a summers breeze....