BARRY MCCONNELL

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BARRY MCCONNELL Supported by his family, his friends and his faith, Barry McConnell died on Thursday evening, October 6, 2005, at Riverview Health Centre. Left to grieve their loss and celebrate his memory are his life partner Joan; their children, Kathi (Scott), Sherri, Kevin (Paul) and Jeff (Margaret); and his six beloved grandchildren, Signy, Johann and Bjorn Kristjanson, Beth and Alex McConnell and Rhiannon McConnell-Hore. He is also survived by his sisters, Helen Sunley (Purve) and Noreen White and their families, by Ross and Donna Pritchard and their family; and by many cousins and friends. Barry grew up on the family farm in the Lavinia district and attended school in Lavinia and Hamiota. Following high school, he took Diploma Agriculture at the University of Manitoba and subsequently returned there to take two degrees in agriculture before attending Michigan State University. Again he returned to the University of Manitoba to teach in the Food Science Department where his greatest joy was in his relationship with the students with whom he worked. Following early retirement his life was enriched by the time he spent in volunteer positions, particularly those within the United Church of Canada through his involvement with Congregation, Presbytery, Conference and General Council. His desire to live out his faith, his commitment to justice, his love of people and his commitment to his denomination made the many volunteer hours rewarding and life-giving for him. One could not spend any time with Barry without learning very quickly that his priority was his family. His love and pride for his children was only topped by his feelings for his grandchildren. The life partners his children chose were also included in his circle of love. Barry and Joan celebrated 46 years of marriage in August of this year - and were grateful for the 50 years they had shared as best friends. Barry faced three primary cancers within the last two years and fought them strongly. The family wishes to thank the many people who provided support, particularly over the past two months, through cards, letters, emails, flowers, food, phone calls and prayer. A very big thank-you also to all the staff of 3E Riverview Health Centre, to the Grace Cancer Care, to Dr. Pat Harris, Dr. Brian Ritchie and Dr. M. L. Cummings for the incredible care and concern shown for Barry and the family. A service of celebration for Barry's life will be held at Crescent Fort Rouge United Church on Tuesday, October 11 at 1:00 p.m. with a time of fellowship following. For those who wish, donations may be made in Barry's memory to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation Inc., ON1160 - 675 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9. It has been said that many people will walk in and out of your life, but only love will leave footprints in your heart. Barry has left a legacy of footprints for which we give thanks. NEIL BARDAL INC. 949-2200

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 08, 2005