Kenneth Thyer Barr

We are writing this tribute on what would be our Dad’s 88th birthday. Complications due to Alzheimer’s had already taken Kenneth Thyer Barr’s memory, along with all his fascinating stories and then finally, his life. Fortunately for us, he kept his easy smile and great wit.

He had followed in his grandfather’s steps and joined the railway at 17 then becoming an engineer with CP Rail. He had a great talent for drawing and was considering being an artist but the bond with his grandfather and trains was stronger! Something magical happened in 1972 when he was able to transfer from Winnipeg to Nanaimo on the E&N Railway. He said we made it to Paradise.

First Baptist Church was an integral part of his life where he served as an elder and made lifetime friends with Bill & Vicki Blacklidge. He stayed in touch with his best friend Tommy Chidlow right up to the time Dad lost his ability to read & write emails.

A special thank you to Ken Cringan of Nanaimo who shared his love of model railroading and who picked him up every Friday night so he could stay connected. Dad said, “If only everyone had a friend like Ken for there is nothing that he wouldn’t do for me.” You were that kind of man Dad. There is nothing you wouldn’t do for others.

He left us peacefully and without suffering the evening of June 21, 2016. He is survived by his wife Rita, his daughters, Marilyn Block and Linda Barr, his 4 Block grandchildren: Ryan, Teresa, Joshua and Dustin along with his 2 great granddaughters Olivia and Cora. He is also survived by his brother Jim (Doreen), along with many Peirce cousins who he thought of as his second family. Thank you to the wonderful Care Givers at Nanaimo Senior’s Village

especially Corinna & Libby. Your love touched us deeply.

Just before leaving us, he was able to listen to his grandson Ryan on the phone who Dad had inspired to draw at an early age and he heard the beautiful music sung by Teresa right before his next adventure in the world beyond.

The time has come for your last ride Dad, but I think that we will hear you blow that whistle again when we are reunited.