It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barbara Joan McMullen, 75, of Ignace, Ontario, on August 11, 2026.
Barbara was a hard-working, tough, determined, kind, and generous woman. Those who knew her well would also describe her as stubborn, but that same strength and determination carried her through life and helped make her the person she was.
Barbara’s love of the outdoors and her passion for the northern way of life drove her to become the second female Conservation Officer in Ontario, an accomplishment she was incredibly proud of.
Later in life, Barbara changed directions when she met her partner, Gerry Nicholas, and she helped build Press Lake Camp into the resort it is today. The camp became a special place for Barbara—a place where she could spend time with family and friends, meet new people, and enjoy the outdoors she loved so much.
She loved animals, gardening, flowers, travelling to warm and sunny places, and spending quiet leisure time reading. She enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—going out for ice cream or dinner, and most of all, quality time spent visiting with friends and family.
Barbara was predeceased by her partner, Gerry Nicholas, and her parents, Ellen Ethel McMullen (née Lawford) and Herbert “Herb” Douglas McMullen.
She will be deeply missed by her son, Ryan Nicholas (Lindsay); her brother, Brian McMullen (Marjorie); nieces Mandy Clark (Mike) and Dawn McMullen-Koehler (Tim); as well as one great-nephew and three great-nieces. She also leaves behind too many cherished friendships to count—a reflection of a life well lived.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Ignace Silver Tops (a cheque can be mailed to PO Box 736 Ignace, ON P0T 1T0 or e-transfer silvertopsignace@gmail.com), an organization that meant a great deal to Barbara. She always looked forward to the Thursday lunches and the opportunity to spend time with friends and her community.
Barbara will be remembered for her strength, generosity, determination, and the many people and places she loved. She will be deeply missed.
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