Barrie Fordham

Barrie Fordham was born in Wales on October 15, 1939, to Joseph and Irene Fordham, where his father was working as a bricklayer. When war was declared, a month before Barrie was born, his dad enlisted in the RAF and was eventually called up after they had moved back to their home in Ilford, Essex, England. Barrie lived in close proximity to most of his father’s siblings, so his cousins and Uncle Bob, a small boy also, were his best friends and playmates. A time in his life he always cherished.

Barrie emigrated with his family to Canada when he was 11 years old, but his heart has always remained with his family in England. He enjoyed a long and illustrious career as a Construction Estimator and General Contractor. Barrie and his beloved wife, Pat, would often spend time driving around the City of Toronto looking at the buildings while Barrie would discuss their history and architecture. Barrie loved his career, and his family is very proud of his successes.

For more than 30 years Barrie was a member of King Valley Golf Course. His friendships with so many of the members there were very meaningful in his life, especially after he retired. Barrie was a friend for life and still frequently visited or corresponded with high school friends. As a teenager and young adult Barrie was also part of a Drum Corp marching band and often reminisced with tales of their adventures.

Barrie and Pat were together for 49 wonderful years. Pat was always proud to be by his side and they enjoyed many years as partners and friends, being there for each other and their family. Barrie was a devoted husband and father who loved his family deeply. Once he retired his fondest position in life was being Grandpa to his five grandchildren, Brooke, Samantha, Kennedy, Charlie and Everett. Barrie had endless hours of fun with all five of his grandchildren. When any of them would walk through the door his face would light up brighter than the sun. He was deeply proud of each of them and loved them with all his heart.

Barrie will be lovingly remembered by his wife Pat, his eldest son Brian, his daughter Jennifer, and her daughter Kennedy. His daughter Sarah Powell and her husband Ben and their two daughters Brooke and Samantha. And his youngest son Matthew who has proudly followed him in the construction industry, Matt's wife Elena and their two boys Charlie and Everett. He will also be dearly missed by his sister Diane Wells, her husband Bruce, their two daughters Joanne Wells and Julie Verbanac, Julie's husband Frank, and her children Hanna Segal and Cameron Segal.

Barrie would want his family and friends to be happy for the life he enjoyed. He was dearly loved in life and that love will continue to be with each of us, both family and friends.

He will be missed.

A visitation for Barrie will be held Tuesday, April 2, 2024 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Thompson Funeral Home, 530 Industrial Parkway South, Aurora, ON L4G6W8.

Charitable donations in memory of Barrie may be made either to Covenant House Toronto, covenanthousetoronto.ca or The Salvation Army, https://salvationarmy.ca/donations/.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ThompsonFH-Aurora.com