Like many, I met Barry through the piano business. I knew immediately that he was a special person, kind to all and caring to many. Over the past 30 years we mostly spoke via phone but each call had meaning as he took the time to care. 
I will miss the calls but have good memories. Thank you
My condolences to the family and those close to Barry. 
Ed in Winnipeg 

Barry was a kind, genuine and generous person. As a newbie in the piano industry he shared with me about his experience patiently. He is always cheerful, pleasant and have a positive vibes. I will always remember this impression of him. I enjoyed working with him very much and will miss him dearly. May you rest in peace Barry! 

- Kalista 

I first met Barry in 1966 while employed by Baldwin. I began working with Barry in 1968. He was a good friend, a great musician and a one
in a lifetime salesman. I learned a lot as did many others. His fabulous
sense of humour was uplifting. We worked together for over 10 years. Although we lost contact, I will never forget the friendship we had. He was a good man.

Bill Wood

Barry Skinner was loved and respected by many and it was a genuine honour and personally gratifying for me to be associated with him during the last years of his life.  

Barry was not only a competent musician, but he owned and ran one of the largest piano retail facilities in North America, leaving an indelible mark on the Toronto piano retail scene and the music industry. But like so many successful businesses at the time, his store became a casualty of the great Ontario recession in the early to mid 90’s. Unbowed, Barry continued  building his legacy at Robert Lowrey Piano Experts for over two decades, which was then acquired by us in 2020. Right up until his sudden passing on March 8th, he continued doing what he loved the most - sharing his charming and effusive spirit with thousands of people, to help bring into their lives the joy of making music, as he so loved to do in his own life. 

Barry will be missed and be remembered by all of us. 

Alan Merriam 


I met Barrie Skinner at The Stone Church.  When I got married Barrie was one of my ushers.  Our wedding reception was at Casa Loma. He was an amazing pianist. He could tickle the ivories.  He was very gifted in music. I asked him to play the piano at my reception. I shall miss him.
Josie Beylerian

My sincerest condolences to Barry’s family. I has known Barry for almost 35 years from work in the piano and organ business. 
Barry was an incredible sales person with great skill in helping customers get the right instrument for their needs. 
He had an incredibly warm presence that made you feel welcome and important. 
I believe a great amount of his success was the ability to listen to people’s needs. 
I learned later that his compassionate heart was very evident in his personal life. 
In the later years, Barry and I enjoyed numerous conversations about family and life in general. He was also a very good teacher in the art of sales techniques. Genuine and truthful. 
He will be missed by me and I know all of his colleagues and friends. 
Blessings 
Dan Amorim


OBITUARY

Barry James Skinner

November 4, 1941 – March 8, 2023

Rosar-Morrison Funeral Home & Chapel

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