Tara Lise Baran (née Katrusiak) was born and raised in Saskatoon, and educated in Saskatoon, Calgary, Waterloo and Mannheim, Germany. She came to Ottawa in 2000 for her love of politics, stayed and nested, forming a loving family that grieves for her dearly. She married her love, Yaroslav, in 2003. She was a loving and devoted mother to four beautiful daughters.
A proud member and longtime parliamentary staffer of the Conservative Party and Government of Canada, briefly a public servant, and longtime policy analyst with the Ukrainian Canadian Congress. A quiet but powerful force behind many she believed in.
Mother. Wife. Political analyst. Community activist. Skier. Questioner of orthodoxy. Rower. Lover of literature. Volunteer. A keen student of human nature, she knew everything about JFK and Jane Austen whom she saw as keys to all human psychology. She loved with her whole heart, touching so many. A kindred spirit and a bosom friend, with eyes the colour of forest lichen, she thrived in the healing power of nature, and in the presence of her children.
A pianist, a dancer, a writer, and a lover of words – her handwriting was angelic. An idealist and a romantic, she exemplified the poetry of Keats: “A thing of beauty is a joy for ever: Its loveliness increases; it will never Pass into nothingness; but still will keep a bower quiet for us, and a sleep, full of sweet dreams, and health, and quiet breathing.”
She believed fiercely in her country – a proud Canadian who cherished her Ukrainian, Irish, Scottish and German-Ukrainian roots. She opposed injustice and oppression in all its forms. She was committed to her church, where she volunteered on council, enchanted by her adopted Eastern Rite.
Tara’s life ended prematurely. Far too soon. May she repose in peace and help guide us to our own.
Tara is survived by her loving husband, Yaroslav Baran, and her cherished daughters, Zoia, Sophia, Emilia, and Julia, who were the very centre of her world. She was predeceased by her father, Norvin (Nobby) Katrusiak, whose memory she carried with her throughout her life. Tara is lovingly remembered by her mother, Georgina Elliott, and her brother, Arin Katrusiak. She was a proud and caring aunt to her nieces, Ariana and Eliseya Snihura-Baran, and a devoted godmother to Gretel Sims, each of whom held a special place in her heart.
The family will receive condolences at Beechwood Cemetery funeral home on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with Requiem at 8:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held at St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Shrine on Saturday, January 10, at 11:00 a.m., followed by Interment at Beechwood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Canada-Ukraine Foundation or St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Shrine.
Livre de visiteurs
Jason Dedo
Joanne Lucas
I first met Tara through our daughters who became close friends. Tara and I got to know each other through schoolyard chats, night skiing and supporting each other as moms. My daughter spent hours with the Baran family, where Tara always made her feel at home.
Tara was a gentle, kind, smart and wise soul. She will be missed dearly. My sincere condolences to her family, may she rest in peace with God.
Raquel Garbers
Yaroslav,
Sending you and your kids my condolences for your heartbreaking loss. May Tara’s memory bring you all some solace.
Lesa Bablak
Dear Yarko Zoia, Sophia, Emilia, and Julia I and Marsh and the whole Bablak family pray for you to stay strong together as you grieve your wife, soulmate, friend, mother and guide. If there is any way we can help please let us know. XPECHA and Marsh and family
Michael and Carlyn
Yaroslav, we are both deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Tara. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you, Zoia, Sophia, Emilia, and Julia. There are no words that can adequately convey the love we have for you. I've been blessed to have you in my life all these years, one of my cherished cousins, and to have forged such wonderful memories with you. Sadly, my path crossed with Tara's far too infrequently. But when it did, she always had the sweetest smile and kindest words to say. And I will treasure those moments.
Rob & Joanna Serpe
To the Baran Family - We are so very sorry for your tremendous loss. Please accept our deepest sympathies and know that you are in our prayers.
Joyce & Bill Postlewaite
It was with profound sadness to hear of the tragic news of our niece, Tara Baran's unexpected passing. Although we had little contact with Tara over the years since she lived so far away from us, we were fortunate to have the family over for a visit when here in Saskatoon several years ago. We found the girls to be delightful, and Jaroslav very personable. As always Tara was herself, smiling, considerate, and happy, and we felt fortunate to have their company. We admired her intelligence, integrity, and compassion. She would want all those that she has left behind to be "strong and carry on" in her absence, and we will remember Tara forever.
Mr. Baran, Zoia, Sophia, Emilia, Julia,
Please accept my sincere sympathy for the death of your dear wife and mother. We are praying for the repose of her soul and for the consolation of your family. Please know that we at Immaculata Catholic High School are here to support you and pray for you now and in the days ahead. I pray that you feel God's love and comfort at this time.
Jason Dedo, Chaplain, Immaculata Catholic High School