Suzanne Adele Barry

Suzanne Adele Barry would like to announce that her work here is done. Although her many friends, admirers and especially her beloved Shawn would much rather she hadn’t departed so soon, she managed to leave an indelible and wonderful mark on absolutely everyone she touched. Hers was a legacy of mentorship, love, empathy and joy. Suzanne leaves her Earthly position, having accomplished much and supported many, but her current assignment is even loftier and far more ethereal.

Suzanne was born in Edmonton, Alberta on June 20, 1945 to proud parents Nellie and Paddy Barry, who raised her on the family homestead near Sangudo, Alberta. After graduating from St. Mary’s High School in Edmonton, in 1962, Suzanne continued her education at the University of Alberta, and later at the University of Calgary.

During her lengthy career as a school psychologist, Suzanne made a positive impact on thousands of children. Her gift of guidance is an invaluable legacy impacting generations.

In 1975, Suzanne began auto rallying, both participating in and organising TSD rallies. She teamed up with Shawn Bishop in 1981, with whom she won the Novice Championship in 1982. She and Shawn continued racing until 1992, winning 4 Canadian Production Class Championships, as well as the Joan McAlpine Ladies Championship Trophy an impressive 4 times. Suzanne also co-drove for Lesley Suddard of Delaware in several Canadian Rally events.

After retiring from competition, Suzanne turned to organising and overseeing Western Stage Rally events, including the Rocky Mountain Rally for many years. She also served on the CARS board. In 2008, Suzanne and Shawn received the CARS Ken Vaughan Special Honours Award for their many years of contribution to the sport.

Suzanne’s next adventure began with her beautiful Oriental Long Hair and Balinese cats. She was a valued member of both the Calgary Cat Association and the International Cat Association. Her alters achieved three international wins, and Suzanne won Lifetime Achievement Awards. Many show judges will remember being welcomed at the Calgary International airport by Suzanne’s smiling face. She helped with cat shows, the club website, fliers, Facebook page management and hotel arrangements.

Suzanne attended Corpus Christi Catholic Parish in Calgary, where she joined the Catholic Women’s League executive, functioning as the Education and Health Chair. She had only been a member of the Parish for a few short years, but she greatly enjoyed the fellowship she found there.

We who are left to grieve Suzanne’s departure will never forget her many and varied gifts, and the selfless way she gave of herself. Truly, she has left this world a better place. Thank you, Suzanne, for everything you did, and for everything you meant to us.

Suzanne leaves her loving partner Shawn Bishop; her very precious fur babies; and her cousins, Val and Rick Peden, Theresa and Mac Nelson, Rita and Jim Biell, Marcia Barry, Bill and Ruth Campbell and Marilyn Hill. Joining those mentioned are many more in the Barry and Bishop families. Suzanne has now joined her parents Paddy and Nellie Barry, uncles Jim Barry, Mac and Lillian Barry, Bill and Adeline Barry; aunts Marge and Gordon Campbell, Martha and Vince Campbell. Suzanne also has joined her cousins Bud Barry, John Campbell and Lorraine Wilson.