Gerald Barrie
Born In: Florence
Born: February 6th, 1928
Passed in: North Sydney
Passed on: April 8th, 2014
It is with heavy hearts and cherished memories that we, the family, announce the passing of a treasured husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, Gerald Barrie of Sydney Mines, on April 8, 2014, at the age of 86. Gerald passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, after a brief illness, at the Northside General Hospital.
Born in Florence on Feb. 6, 1928, he was the son of the late George and Cecilia (Cantwell) Barrie.
A man of incredible love and faith, he was an active member of St. Pius X parish. He was employed as a stationary engineer at the Northside General Hospital until his retirement in 1993.
One of his many joys in life was spending relaxing summers at his cabin in Beaver Cove with family and friends. Over the past 36 years Gerald would spend countless hours at the cabin gardening, making preserves, playing cards, swimming in the Bras d’Or Lakes, sitting by the campfire and pushing his grandchildren and then great-grandchildren on the swings.
For many years he enjoyed bowling in both the men’s and mixed leagues at Strand bowling alley. He also loved walking, day trips, travelling, dancing, fishing and hunting. In his younger years, Gerald enjoyed skating and playing hockey with his brothers. He was a kind, warm and outgoing man with an enthusiasm for everything he pursued. Gerald took nothing for granted and lived each day to the fullest. He was a gentle soul, and his welcoming personality and permanent smile helped make him a friend to all. He was deeply loved and well respected by those who knew him.
Left to mourn Gerald is his loving wife of 64 years, Theresa (McKenna); his devoted children, Brian (Cecily), Halifax, Madonna (Bud) Huntley, North Sydney, and Maureen (Reza) Khierdoost, Halifax. He will forever be remembered for his everlasting strength by his three grandchildren, Jennifer (Lloyd) Hall, Stephen Huntley (Trish Noble) and Laurie (Geoff) Jay. Papa B’s beaming smile, warm hugs and high fives will never be forgotten by his three great-grandchildren Kailee and Mallory Hall and Tyler Jay.
Gerald is also survived by sisters, Bernadette Whittem, Ontario, and Ann Quinn, Florence; brothers, Mac, Sydney Mines, and Dave (Theresa) Florence and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his twin sons, Malcolm and Joseph in infancy, brothers, Nat and Adrian, sister Adelaide Clancy and two sisters in infancy.
Visitation for Gerald Barrie will be held today (Wednesday, April 9) from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. in J.M. Jobes Funeral Home, 635 Main St., Sydney Mines. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Family Parish (the former St. Pius X Parish) on Thursday, April 10, at 2 p.m. with Rev. Ray Huntley officiating. A reception will be held in the parish hall, following the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CNIB (cnib.ca or 1-800-563-2642), The Canadian Cancer Society or charity of one’s choice.
Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www.jmjobesfuneralhome.com.
