Obituary of Valerie Florence LeBarre

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It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Valerie Florence LeBarre. Valerie left us on May 17, 2024, at the age of 69 years in Melfort, Saskatchewan. Her presence in our lives will be greatly missed.

Valerie was born on February 19th, 1955, to Melvin and Gwen (Jessup) LeBarre. She was the second child of five, and was raised on the family homestead at Pleasantdale, along with her siblings, Brian, Kathy, Joanne, and Bruce. Growing up on a farm entailed a lot of responsibilities, from tending to farm animals to looking after her younger siblings. From grade 1 through grade 9, Valerie attended Pleasantdale Central School. She then went to Melfort & Unit Comprehensive Collegiate, graduating in June of 1974. Following graduation, Valerie began working as a telephone operator for SaskTel. She was employed by them for four and a half years. In 1979, Valerie began her career with the Parkland Regional Care Centre. Valerie worked in housekeeping until her retirement in 2004.

On July 5th, 1975, Valerie married Lorne Therres. They moved to Melfort and began their life together as husband and wife. On December 10th, 1977, they were blessed with their only child, which they always referred to as “their miracle baby,” Tammy Lee. She was the pride and joy of their lives.

Music was a passion for Valerie. From a very young age, Valerie learned to play the piano and sing. She, along with her siblings, Brian and Kathy, as well as Donnie Kager, performed as the group The Kager Orchestra at many community dances. Valerie’s love of music never left her. She was never without her Alabama when riding in the car. Of late, she had been singing with her brother, Brian, at Caskey, performing such favourites of hers as The Church in the Wildwood and Bad Moon Rising. But, her favourite song to perform at family gatherings was Daddy’s Hands.

Valerie believed in service. As a young woman, she was a member of the Jaycettes. The Therres family was always very active in the Christian community, both at the Southern Baptist Church and the Evangelical Covenant Church in Melfort. Valerie adopted a child through World Vision. She was also a lifelong contributor to many Christian entities, believing in their good works. Valerie was also someone who never hesitated to support friends and family. She was always there, giving hugs, listening, and doing what she could to ease their woes.

She never forgot a birthday or an anniversary. Valerie always made a point of calling on those occasions, as well as sending cards. She knew the importance of being remembered and passed this on to her family. Christmas was one of her favourite times of the year. She made sure that everyone had a present to open, and always managed to know just what to purchase. Valerie also loved celebrating her birthday with her brother Bruce because their birthdays were only one day apart. Having family and friends surrounding her on these occasions gave her great joy and laughter. Not only did she not forget the important dates, but she also had many a story to share. One of her favourite pastimes was reminiscing with friends and family and sharing a meal with them.

Valerie loved to play games. She was often referred to as “the big kid” because she would be a part of whatever game was being played with family and friends. I Spy With My Little Eye, Hearts, and Uno were her favourite games.

Valerie was the movie guru of the family. Disney movies were a must.

A daily regime of Valerie’s was watching Little House on the Prairie and The Waltons. At Christmas time, a tradition of watching the Home Alone series began with Tammy, and continued with her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephew. Their laughter filled the room.

Valerie is survived by her daughter Tammy Hataley; siblings Brian LeBarre (Val Haddon), Kathy Godson, and Bruce LeBarre; and long-time friend, Imogene Schick; as well as her nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephew.

Valerie is predeceased by her parents, Melvin and Gwen LeBarre; sister, Joanne LeBarre; and her nephew, Rowland LeBarre

Memorial contributions in memory of Valerie may be directed to the Silver Park Cemetery, Melfort Evangelical Covenant Church and /or 

Charity of Choice.