Barry Nicholas Hole

Parksville, BC – It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barry Nicholas Hole on February 6, 2026, in Parksville, British Columbia, following a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Barry was a man of quiet strength, deep integrity, and a lifelong commitment to helping others.

A Life of Craft and Character

Born on November 3, 1946, in Bridgewater, Somerset, England, Barry spent his early years mastering his trade as a plumber and pipefitter under his mentor Anthony Innalls who, along with his wife Betty, became lifelong friends. In 1975, at the age of 28, he immigrated to Winnipeg, Canada, where he continued to excel in his field. His professional journey culminated in his role as the Service Manager for Daplex Plumbing and Heating, where he was widely respected by colleagues and customers alike as a master of his craft-a man who was truly deserving of the trust placed in him. Barry retired to the beauty of Parksville in September 2012.

A Helping Hand

In his personal life, Barry was known for his soft-spoken nature and his willingness to step up whenever someone was in need. Whether he knew the solution or had to figure it out as he went, he never backed down from a task if it meant helping a friend or family member. To know Barry was to know a man who led by example, showing that a “shining light” is often found in simple acts of service and kindness.

The Quiet Competitor

While Barry was known for being soft-spoken, those who sat across from him at a table or stood with him on a green knew his competitive fire. He spent years in pursuit of mastering the game of golf and was a fixture at the pool table. For many years, he was also a staple of the Charleswood Legion, where he was a highly competitive darts player. However, it was perhaps his “sneaky” nature as a card player that his friends and family will remember most; he had a knack for finding clever ways to frustrate his opponents, always playing with a sharp mind and a quiet wit.

Family Legacy

Barry’s greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Marilyn; his sons, Ashley (Kate) and Shaun (Dee); and his daughter, Sheri Murphy (Jamie). He was proud grandfather to Darian, Matthew, William, Hannah, Keiran, Kamryn, and Kayleigh.

He is also survived by his sister, Angela Moxey; his brother, David (Hilary); his twin brother, John (Jane); and sisters-in-law Patricia Linsell and Patricia Hole, along with a large community of extended family and dear friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Rosina and Edward, his brother Brian, his brothers-in-law Rex and David, and his favorite Aunt Alice, of whom he had many fond memories.

Memorial and Gratitude

Per Barry’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. Instead, private celebrations of life will be held in Parksville and Winnipeg for close family and friends in the coming months.

Marilyn would like to thank family and friends for the cards, floral arrangements, and condolences received from the U.K. and across Canada. The family also extends their deepest gratitude to the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital Palliative Care team; the compassion and exceptional care they provided to Barry during his final days brought immense comfort to him and his loved ones.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Barry’s name to the Canadian Cancer Society or a cancer foundation of your choice.