SteinbachOnline.com: Norma Barkman, founder of the Steinbach Arts Council, leaves lasting legacy

This post was originally published by SteinbachOnline.com: https://steinbachonline.com/articles/norma-barkman-founder-of-the-steinbach-arts-council-leaves-lasting-legacy-

The Steinbach community is mourning the loss of Norma Gladys Barkman, a beloved local arts champion, who passed away peacefully on November 5th, at the age of 94. Her passing marks the end of an era for the city, but her legacy of nurturing the arts will continue to inspire for years to come. 

Barkman was a passionate musician and a driving force behind the founding of the Steinbach Arts Council 45 years ago. Her deep love for music and the arts was evident throughout her life. She was a skilled pianist, organist, and music educator, and for more than 20 years, she served as the organist at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.

Barkman’s devotion to arts education extended to her home, where she hosted music theory exams and provided a welcoming space for aspiring musicians. 

Executive Director at the Steinbach Arts Council, David Klassen says, “Norma was always committed to bringing people together and to education. It’s no surprise she was one of the founders of the Arts Council because that’s really what we are all about—bringing people together through the arts. She left behind a wonderful legacy.” 

Barkman’s influence extended far beyond her role at the church or her work with the Arts Council. She was a natural connector, known for hosting after-performance parties at her home, where she brought together musicians, artists, and supporters of the arts. Her commitment to fostering a love of music and the arts in others was something she shared with everyone she met, including Cindi Rempel Patrick, a longtime community member and former Executive Director of the Arts Council.

“I’ve known Norma my whole life.” Rempel-Patrick shared reflecting on her long relationship with the Barkman family.  

“When I was just a little girl, I used to run over to her house and bang on her piano. She noticed right away and told my mom, ‘You need to get your daughter a piano.’ That was the start of it all for me.”  

Rempel-Patrick credits Barkman with sparking her own passion for music and arts and for being a constant source of inspiration throughout her life. She notes that Barkman’s encouragement didn’t stop with her. 

Rempel-Patrick says that Barkman was a guiding force for many in the community, always promoting the importance of being involved in both the arts and other activities like sports.

She fondly remembers Barkman’s lively spirit and boundless energy.  

“She was always busy, always doing something—exercising, singing in choirs, taking on new challenges. She showed me the value of being involved in everything, and how important it is to keep learning and trying new things.” 

Barkman’s legacy of generosity and community spirit is carried on by her children and grandchildren, who are themselves active in the arts, sports, and community life.  

“Her children are a reflection of everything she stood for. They carry on her love for music, her zest for life, and her commitment to giving back.” 

Barkman’s memorial service was held on Wednesday, November 13 at Birchwood Funeral Chapel in Steinbach. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the Steinbach Arts Council. 

Barkman’s memory will live on in the many lives she touched, the arts she helped nurture, and the community she helped build.