BRIAN FRANKLIN BARRY

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Brian Barry on Monday, September 28, 2026, at the age of 66.

Brian was predeceased by his parents Louise and Robert Barry, and his brother and best friend Robert Barry.

He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Kristal-Lyn, Shane (Kaitlyn), and Nicole (Whit), his three grandchildren Spencer, Connor and Aubrey, the mother of his children, Deb, his siblings Pat Sopher (Will), Judy Stratton (Alexander "Sandy"), Linda Elmhurst (Dale Lewicki), Joan Boone (Frank), Edie Pujo (Roger), Ken Barry (Sandy), and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

Brian was the youngest of eight siblings and was born and raised in St. Vital, a community that remained close to his heart throughout his life. He attended Windsor Elementary School before moving on to Glenlawn Collegiate where he developed a lifelong love of sports. Brian played football, participated in track and field, and excelled in nearly every athletic endeavor he pursued.

In 1993, Brian returned to his roots by purchasing his childhood home on Glen Avenue with Deb. There, they raised their family and spent many years creating memories with those he loved most.

Two years ago, Brian was blessed with the unexpected opportunity to connect with his daughter, Kristal-Lyn. He quickly came to cherish the relationship they built and was grateful to become part of the lives of her three children. The time they spent together brought him great happiness, and he treasured the chance to know them.

Brian dedicated 38 years of service to CN Rail, where he built a respected career through hard work, commitment and reliability. After nearly four decades with CN, Brian retired at the age of 55. He embraced retirement enthusiastically, filling his days with baseball, pool, gardening, following his favourite sports teams, and spending time with friends and family. He also devoted time to volunteering at the St. Mary’s United Church Food Bank, helping support members of the community.

Sports were woven into nearly every chapter of Brian's life. Whether he was playing, coaching, cheering from the sidelines, or watching from his favourite chair, he was happiest when sports were involved. He enjoyed bowling, soccer, baseball, football, billiards, and found great joy in sharing those passions with his children. Brian coached his son Shane in both soccer and bowling, creating countless memories together. He was a constant presence at Nicole’s soccer games, enthusiastically cheering her on. He was a proud father whose greatest joy came from watching his kids.

Brian was also a devoted sports fan. His loyalty to the Dallas Cowboys never wavered, remaining his favourite team from the very beginning. He was also passionate about Manchester United, and celebrated the return of the Winnipeg Jets, following each team with enthusiasm and dedication.

In his later years, Brian continued to enjoy the camaraderie and competition that sports brought into his life. After earlier in life playing baseball for the Swampers, he returned to the pitch to play senior baseball for the Country Bums, while winters were spent playing pool with the Riff Raff at the Travelodge on Fermor. The friendships he built through these teams and leagues were among the many relationships he treasured.

Outside of sports, Brian found satisfaction in gardening. He took great pride in cultivating a beautiful garden filled with tomatoes, peppers, and other vegetables each year. Brian was a lifelong dog lover, and his beloved Mishka held a special place in his heart. The bond they shared brought him immense joy and companionship. Brian also cherished the time he spent at Caribou Lake with his brother Bob and family. Some of his happiest memories were made there, enjoying the outdoors, spending time with loved ones, and sharing the experience with his son Shane over the years.

Brian cared deeply for the people in his life and was always willing to help when he could. He valued the friendships he built over the years and enjoyed spending time with family, friends, teammates, and neighbours.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 1:00 pm on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at St. Mary's United Church, 613 St. Mary's Road, Winnipeg MB. Parking is limited, though additional parking on the road is available.

An interment ceremony will be held at a later date for close family.

Brian was a long-time blood donor, with 80 donations throughout his lifetime. While flowers are welcome, those wishing to honour Brian's memory may consider making a blood donation through Canadian Blood Services, if able. 

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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