February 17, 1954 – January 11, 2023
Barry’s gone. After a tremendously difficult struggle with multiple health issues, his exhausted heart gave up. Yes, life will go on, but it will never be the same without him. We will miss his wisdom, his leadership, and his love. Barry was both stoic and sensitive. He was methodical and meticulous. He possessed a brilliant mind and delighted in planning and problem solving. A proud Mechanical Engineer (U of A, 1977), Barry enjoyed a stellar career in facility and project management for close to 40 years. He was a true gentleman, a class act and a well-respected mentor to many who worked with him and for him. He loved travelling, good rum and cranking up the stereo.
To our sons he was an amazing father who taught them how to be good men in this world. It is because of him that they are prepared for life without him. To our adoring grandsons he was a legend, a hero. His pride for these boys (big and small) was immeasurable and his legacy lives on in them all. Barry and I shared a great love built on true friendship and respect. Our personalities complemented each other. We were a team.
Barry left us peacefully and with dignity. We are grateful to the medical staff in Unit 17 and the ICU at Sturgeon Community Hospital who cared for him with compassion. In keeping with his wishes, cremation has occurred. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Diabetes Canada. Because we need time to process and heal, we are planning a Celebration of Life for him in the spring. Information will be shared via social media when plans are finalized. There will be rum.
Patrick & Candace and Sean & Sandra will support each other through this immense loss. Felix & Arlo and Tyson & Wyatt will dearly miss their beloved Grandpa Barry. Siblings Monty (Shirley), Darren (Nancy), Lori (Doug), Wayne (Marilyn), sister-in-law Darlene, and mother-in-law Mona, survive him as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. His parents, Howard & Ivy, brother Larry, and father-in-law Lorne have gone before. Many lifelong friends, especially Mary Anne & Merle, are left with precious memories of wonderful times spent together.
And then there’s me, Glenda, his loving wife of almost 45 years. Barry, I’ll see you on the other side, where we will drive through Tuscany together again in a sports car of your choice. Maybe a Ferrari. Love you.
Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home
St. Albert Chapel
(780) 458-2222
