Mr. Barry John Gunn

It is with extreme sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Barry John Gunn on Friday, March 29, 2013. He was a loving and devoted husband to Judy (Eaton), a proud and loving father to Stephanie Switzer (Jamie) and Michael (Nadi) and an adoring “Guppy” to his grandchildren Lexi, Sophie and Julia. He is survived by his brother Duane (Linda) and his sister Pamela Dubowec, and leaves behind an aunt, many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Barry was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba and graduated from the University of Manitoba in 1970. He went on to article with the firm of Peat Marwick Mitchell and Company, now KPMG, and completed his CA, receiving an award for high marks. His time spent in tax accounting led to a position as CFO of Commonwealth Insurance Company in Vancouver, but a takeover in 1984 forced him to make a decision to which he referred as the “second best” decision of his life. In partnership with long time friend, Bruce Young, he bought Edmonds Appliance Centre and, subsequently, Y. Franks Appliances. Barry loved the industry and the challenges that came with it, lending his enthusiasm, intelligence and energy to industry boards on both sides of the border. His insights, integrity and honesty were highly regarded.

His generosity, larger than life personality and his self-depracating manner endeared him to those who knew him. “Barry Stories” have become legendary and he was usually the one who laughed the loudest when they were shared. Barry took steps to simplify his life in order to spend more time with family and friends. By putting trust in those around him he was able to strike a balance between business and leisure time that was the envy of many. As a self-professed “news junkie”, nothing raised his spirits like a rousing debate with good friends on issues ranging from health and science to sports and world affairs. He was on top of it all. He was a patriotic and emotional man and many a tear was shed at the singing of “Oh Canada” any time an Olympic Medal was awarded or the Canadian flag was raised.

Memories of skiing at Whistler and golfing at Big Sky abound but his “happy place” was his little piece of heaven on the Sunshine Coast where he brought family and friends together to share his joy. His spirit will live on there and forever be felt by his loved ones.

Sincere appreciation to both the Sechelt and Gibsons paramedic teams for their tireless efforts, compassion and support. A very special thank you to the Angel in blue who stopped to help.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Capilano Golf and Country Club on Wednesday, April 10th at 11:00 AM.

Barry was very supportive of the work of the Union Gospel Mission and the SPCA should you wish to donate in his memory.