Dr. Barry Kevin Friesen

It is with great sadness, but also with deep gratitude for a life so well lived, that the family of Dr. Barry Kevin Friesen announces his peaceful passing at the age of 59.

Barry was the beloved husband of Janice Friesen, his loving wife and partner of 32 years. He was a devoted father to Cassie (Blayne) Stam, Adam Friesen, Holly (Joseph) Takenaka, and Jack Friesen, and a proud and loving grandfather to Malachi and Elijah Takenaka.

Barry is also lovingly remembered by his mother, "Toots" Viola Friesen; his brother Rick (Rose) Friesen; nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and many other extended family members. He was predeceased by his father, "Lou" Carl Friesen, and his brother, Douglas Friesen.

Born on February 3, 1967, in St. Catharines, Ontario. He grew up in a Christian home where faith was shared and became an important foundation throughout his life. He went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Toronto in 1991. After completing his family medicine residency at the University of Manitoba, Barry continued west to British Columbia to begin his medical career in Vancouver BC. Shortly after, Barry met and fell in love with Janice (Dyck) and they were married in 1994. They moved to Abbotsford, British Columbia in 1996, where he started his family practice and began raising their family.

From 1991 to 2011, Barry practised as a family physician, dedicating 20 years to caring for others. He was deeply loved and respected by his patients. Medicine suited Barry well because caring for people came naturally to him. His kindness extended far beyond his medical practice. Whether it was a patient, neighbour, friend, or family member, Barry was always willing to lend a hand and help wherever he could.

Barry was a man of many interests and seemingly endless talents. He loved being outdoors, particularly working on his hobby farm, where he could often be found gardening, landscaping, or tackling another building project. He enjoyed cooking and baking, was creative and enjoyed crafts, and was musically gifted, playing both the violin and piano. Athletic and naturally talented in so many things he pursued, Barry would always be up for a game of tennis or a round of golf.

Above all, Barry loved his family.He worked hard to provide for them and always wanted the very best for Janice and their children. Even throughout the many challenges of living with Parkinson's disease, he continued to take an interest in his children's lives, their hobbies, school activities, and accomplishments. His family brought him tremendous joy.

Barry's 20-year journey with Parkinson's disease asked much of him and of those who loved him. Yet the disease never defined the entirety of who Barry was, he was a husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, physician, musician, gardener, builder, friend, and a man of faith.

He will be remembered for his caring heart, his many talents, his willingness to help others, and most of all, for the love he had for his family.

Barry's family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the many physicians, specialists, nurses, care aides, and other healthcare professionals who cared for Barry throughout his long journey with Parkinson's disease. Your compassion, skill, kindness, and support meant more than words can adequately express. Thank you not only for caring for Barry, but also for walking alongside Janice and the entire family through the many challenges and changes throughout the years.

Barry passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of a family who will miss him beyond words.

His life was a gift, his love will remain, and his memory will be carried forward in the lives of those who knew and loved him.

If anyone wishes to remember Barry with a gift, please donate to the Parkinson Society of BC at www.parkinson.bc.ca

A Celebration of Life will be held at Northview Community Church, Friday, October 16 at 1pm. (Downes Rd Campus, 32040 Downes Rd, Abbotsford)