Barry Eugene Gusnowsky

Barry passed away on September 28, 2023 in the Palliative Care Unit at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital after a lengthy illness. He was born on August 2,1940 in Winnipeg, Manitoba to Walter and Natalie (Hykawy).

Predeceased by his parents, many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends, he leaves to mourn his passing sons Bennie (Leona) of Winnipeg, Dan (Laurie) of Phoenix, Darren (Holly) of Edmonton and their mother Heather (Hanson) of Winnipeg, his sister Theresa of Nanaimo, 3 grandchildren Quinlan (Bennie), Danica and Meredith (Darren).

Barry grew up on the family farm at Lot 60 St. Andrews. In the spring and fall, he helped his father and uncles with seeding and harvesting. He attended St. Andrews School, St Paul’s High School and St. John’s High School. Barry had an entrepreneurial spirit and loved a challenge, trying many opportunities over the years. Barry was very active with Kinsmen in Outlook, SK, where he farmed for several years. Through those many years of farming, construction and trucking, he was able to pass on very useful skills to his sons. Barry was very meticulous and precise which showed in his stained glass works, cooking and baking. His cinnamon buns, pumpkin pies and cookies were especially appreciated by friends and neighbours.

Barry loved to travel by car and his passion for trucking took him the length and breadth of North America. He loved watching baseball, hockey and basketball on TV and even until the end, could remember who played on what team and who coached various teams. He had a generous heart and would help strangers in need.

Barry had a saying at funerals, “when God calls, everyone answers”. His source of strength was his Faith and he regularly attended St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Nanaimo. God has called Barry to a better place. May he Rest in Peace.

In lieu of flowers, make a donation to a charity of your choice. Or just take a moment to remember Barry’s infectious laugh and the good times you had with him.

Our family would like to express our gratitude to the staff at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital, Lakeside Gardens Seniors Community, where Barry lived for the past 2 years and the VIHA staff who provided him with quality care. He remained fiercely independent right to the end.

Cremation has taken place. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated with interment in the Columbarium at St Peter’s Roman Catholic Church in Nanaimo along with a celebration of life in 2024.