Diane McWilliams passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026, at the age of 70.
Born in Vancouver on October 16, 1955, Diane grew up in North Vancouver, where she developed a lifelong love of the outdoors. As a child, she spent countless days exploring the forests and mountains of the North Shore and became an avid skier. In her teenage years, she enjoyed spending time at the local car race track, a pastime she always looked back on with fondness.
In the 1980s, Diane met Jim Barz, and together they settled in Lac La Hache, where they built a life together and raised their two children. She loved her home on the lake and raising her children there. During those years, she established a career as an appraiser with BC Assessment, where she became known for her professionalism, integrity, and strong work ethic.
In 1999, the family moved to Brentwood Bay, where Diane continued her career with BC Assessment in Greater Victoria. She particularly enjoyed the days her work took her to the Gulf Islands and the Saanich Peninsula. Brentwood Bay remained her home for the rest of her life.
Family was at the heart of Diane’s life. She loved her children deeply and provided unwavering support throughout their lives. Becoming a Nana was one of the greatest joys of her life. She adored her four grandchildren and cherished every opportunity to spend time with them. Watching them grow filled her with pride and brought her endless happiness.
Diane had many close friends throughout her life who meant a great deal to her. Music was woven throughout her life, from learning to play the piano as a child to helping organize the Lac La Hache Country Music Festival and spending many summers with her family at the Merritt Mountain Music Festival. In later years, she found great joy singing with Via Choralis and attending the symphony.
Her kindness, quiet strength, optimism, and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.
She will be lovingly remembered by her son, William Harrison-Barz; her daughter, Emily Passero (Chris Passero); her grandchildren, Aria Harrison, Harlyn Harrison, Scarlett Passero, and Weston Passero; her brother, David McWilliams; her nieces, Sienna and Stephanie; her nephews, Keith, John, and Bryan; and many extended family members and dear friends.
She was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Peter.
Diane was a great neighbour to all of us that lived on our street. Diane was always walking with Bella and would stop and chat with each of us. Diane was a special friend and neighbour and I miss her very much. Condolences to her family and friends
Very sad to hear the news of Diane’s passing. Very grateful for her support and friendship during my time working with Viva Youth Voices. Rest in Peace lovely lady. You will be much missed.
I’m so sad to hear of Diane’s passing. I knew her as a vibrant, lively and very capable person who became a good friend when she joined Via Choralis choir. In recent years our musical paths went in different directions but our friendship remained strong. I will miss hearing from her, catching up with our news and especially getting her updates on her children and grandchildren of whom she was very proud. Her loss will be felt by many
So sorry to hear this. I worked with Diane at BCA and missed her after she retired. So glad she was able to spend time with her family as I know they were cherished greatly.
So sad to hear.. I did not know her well but remember her always as a lovely person. My condolences to all the family and friends managing their loss and sorrow. Kind regards, Sean.