Barry Smith

Barry (age 78) passed away suddenly on October 17, due to a gastric volvulus. He is sadly missed by his wife Judy (married 56 years), his daughters Tammy (Doug) Gulevich and Barb Nimchuk, his grandchildren: Kimberly (Ian) Zackodnik, Jacquie Gulevich (Mike), Julia, Kayla and Kyle Nimchuk, his great granddaughter Rion Zackodnik and his sisters Gail (Larry) Capostinsky and Mart (Russ) Haddad.

Barry was born in Salmon Arm, moved to Toronto to attend DeVry Tech, met and married Judy, worked for CN Telecommunications in Toronto then transferred to Dawson Creek. In 1970, he hired on with BC Tel in Prince George where he remained until his retirement in 1999.

Barry had a zest for life! He built his own boat at age 16 and taught many to waterski. He was an excellent slalom skier himself! He and Judy spent many years boating/cruising/fishing at Francois Lake and they cruised the entire Inside Passage. He and his friend Ron caught many salmon and halibut on their fishing adventures.

He also loved to go hunting; he and his friend Curt were very successful. Barry also built houses for his daughters and a friend. Shortly after retirement, he was diagnosed with MS which curtailed many of his activities. Barry then spent his time hand-crafting wood products in his workshop. His handiwork is admired and cherished by all.

Barry was an active volunteer in Telephone Pioneers. He cut out hundreds of “hug a bears” for BC Ambulances, Children’s Christmas stockings filled by BCT employees, and heart pillows for patients. He also helped build the gazebo at the hospital. He and Judy organized many social events for the Pioneers during retirement.

Barry was also a member of the Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons. He spent endless volunteer hours teaching boating courses for over 25 years. When COVID hit, he helped develop on-line boating courses which has been such a success across Canada and beyond.

He will be dearly missed by many in his life. No funeral service by his request. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to your favourite charity.