Barrie Griffiths

Barrie was born in East Grinstead, Sussex, England, on January 8, 1939, the second child of Peggie and John Henry Griffiths. Growing up in wartime England, he experienced the uncertainty, rationing, and evacuations of the era. These formative experiences instilled in him the resilience, curiosity, and adaptability that became hallmarks of his life.

Barrie’s passion for athletics was evident from a young age. At East Grinstead County Grammar School, he set a school record in the 110-yard hurdles in 1956—a record that stood for more than a decade.

After beginning his career at sea with P&O, Barrie emigrated to Canada with his beloved wife, Pat, and their two children. They eventually settled in Calgary, where he built a career spanning nearly three decades in Food Services at the University of Calgary. His crowning professional achievement came as Food Services Manager for the Athletes’ Village during the XV Olympic Winter Games in Calgary in 1988, where his love of sport and commitment to community flourished.

He became an integral part of the Calgary running community, competing in countless road and trail races with the Calgary Roadrunners. His dedication to running was matched by an unwavering commitment to volunteerism. Barrie coordinated aid stations for the Calgary Marathon for many years, earning induction into the Calgary Marathon Hall of Fame in 2012 and being named Volunteer of the Year in 2015.

Barrie was also deeply committed to his faith and his church community at Holy Cross Anglican Church. He found great meaning in tending the church garden, nurturing both its beauty and its sense of welcome for all who visited. His spirit of generosity and care extended beyond the walls of the church, touching many lives within the congregation.

In all aspects of his life, Barrie was known for his warmth, humour, and integrity. He was deeply devoted to his family and took pride in preserving its heritage and traditions, sharing stories and heirlooms with his children and grandchildren. His legacy lives on in the Calgary running and volunteer communities, the Holy Cross church community, and in the hearts of all who knew him.

Barrie is survived by his loving wife, Pat; his children, Mark and Clare; and his cherished grandchildren, Renee Leclerc, Ethan Leclerc, and Violet Griffiths. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by family and friends across Canada and the UK.

A memorial service will be held at Holy Cross Anglican Church at 11:00 a.m. on June 20, 2026. In lieu of flowers, guests are invited to bring a decorated rock to place in the church garden, in honour of Barrie’s love for this special place.

Le Bon Temps Viendra – The Good Times Will Come