BARRY DOUGLAS JOHNSON

Condolences & Memories (34 entries)

• Years back I was driving home and the radio DJ says "Elvis Presley has died". In a flash I wasn't driving, I was spaced out and asking if I had heard that right. Someone who was a fixture in what seemed to be life itself and who was still a young man has died. But I needed still more verication, and got it. I've never gotten over it or forgotten the stunned realization that an era was over. I was home the day Barry had this misfortunate accident. My wife said something to me, and there I was stunned, spaced out, my mind asking WTF did she just say? Disbelief threw itself in my path attempting to save me from what I thought I heard. I felt as if she couldn't possibly be talking about the Barry Jonhson I knew. I'd have to have that verified before I'd even entertain it. I was in no rush. I wanted to put it off and pretend it was a simple error. Well, just like Elvis another era over. Another young man has died. A flood of memories ensued, as if my life was flashing in front of me. I had the good fortune to move to Fort Richmond in 1967. I had the good fortune to be befriended by many great kids at school who formed an amazing bond that lasted far past high school and into young adulthood. We gave each other strength, courage and support until we could fly off on our own. We owe each other so much. Barry was one of us. He gave, he received and we shared a world vision. We were loyal and protective. Generous and so entertaining. Its so easy to remember and to miss those times. Its easy to recall young Barry deciding he was going to hang with the big boys. He hung in there until he was just one of us. He'll always be one of us. - Posted by: Rick Hisco (one of us) on: Jan 17, 2015

• There are no words that can express how truly sorry we are for the loss of a son, and a brother. Friends and family alike will miss him deeply. Our prayers and our thoughts have been with you each and every day and they will be for a very long time. - Posted by: Roger Murray Trucking (Employer) on: Jan 08, 2015

• Rip barry ive always loved u unconditionally buddy i will miss u - Posted by: Carol Patenaude (friend) on: Jan 07, 2015

• You were a great Friend Barry. My heart goes out to his family. We know how much he cared for you all. Will miss our dinner get together's. There is a special place in Heaven for you kind sir. Until we meet again. - Posted by: Tracey Murphy (Friend) on: Jan 05, 2015

• I will miss being your friend - Posted by: Beverly K (friend) on: Jan 03, 2015

• Barry was always a generous caring friend. I loved his company in years gone by and he was there for me years later with genuine love, care and direction. You will surely be missed but always remembered! - Posted by: Maureen Kroll (Tremeer) (neighbour friend on Cornell) on: Dec 31, 2014

• My thoughts go out to his family during this deeply trying time. I had lost touch with Barry but we had recently connected again as we both attended the Great Woods music festival in Beausejour for the last several years. It was always fun catching up on old times with him. He will be missed. - Posted by: Terry Moffatt (Friend from Fort Richmond collegiate) on: Dec 28, 2014

• Met Barry a few yrs back. I enjoyed his sense of humor and his heart for others, he really did have a big heart. He will be missed as he was much loved around the rooms of AA. RIP my friend. - Posted by: lisa johnston (friend) on: Dec 28, 2014

• I was shocked and saddened to learn of Barry's death. My thoughts are with you all. - Posted by: Wendy Josephson () on: Dec 27, 2014

• So very sad to hear of Barry's passing. A truly good guy who left us much too soon. My condolences to his family and many close friends. - Posted by: Walter Kloos (Old Friend from Ft. Richmond) on: Dec 25, 2014

• We really wish we could have spent more time together throughout the years. We will miss you sadly and our thoughts, hearts and prayers go out to all family and friends. - Posted by: Tim, Linda, Brett and Cameron (Cousin) on: Dec 24, 2014

• So sorry to hear of Barry's passing. My heart goes out to the family. He was memorable as I went to the same school with him and Bruce in Fort Richmond and though many people have come and gone. I remember his smile. - Posted by: Gayle (Old schoolmate) on: Dec 23, 2014

• To the Johnson family, My deepest condolences, I had the pleasure of meeting Barry many years ago. It saddens my heart to have an amazing person leave at such a young age. I know that Barry is looking down and smiling ... - Posted by: Lisa Fredette (friends ) on: Dec 23, 2014

• Dad (Art Sutton) always spoke with deep respect for Gord, and I remember Dad recounting discussions with Gord about his son. It was evident the pride Gord felt, despite difficulties, and our Dad shared stories with our family of an honourable family who cared deeply for each other. Know the Sutton family are sending their prayers to all of you. - Posted by: Dale Sutton (daughter of long-time friend of Gord Johnson, Arthur Sutton) on: Dec 23, 2014

• I knew Barry (Dr. J.)through many mutual friends, and I was also a Winnipeg music fan that got to know him around the Cornerboys days. I still recall one particular conversation we had about being accountable for your actions that left a lasting impression on me. He was special! - Posted by: Colin McCowan (Wire) (Friend from days gone by.) on: Dec 23, 2014

• I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to Barry's family. I was deeply saddened to hear of the loss of a long ago friend, brother and son. I for one will cherish the many memories of our early teenage years. Barry was like a second brother with his daily visits to the house on Cornell. Many bonds of friendship were created that will last a life time and Barry will remain in our hearts forever. - Posted by: Leslie Mondor (Tremeer) (Friend) on: Dec 23, 2014

• Dear Bruce, Karen, Barry's daughter Rheanne, Barry's parents and other family and close friends, I am so very saddened to hear about your loss. Barry was a warm and open-hearted person to be around. He had a beautiful smile, personality and easy going way about him. I always enjoyed having a chance to talk with and connect with him whenever our paths crossed. He was thoughtful, kind and fun to be with. He found his way through some difficult times in the past and passed on understanding and support to many young people who likely needed a down to earth person like him to share some counsel and wisdom with them. Listening to his stories about this convinced me of what an awesome person he was. It must be very difficult for all of you right now. My partner Gary and I send heartfelt condolences to all of you. - Posted by: Kathie Josephson/ Gary Laidlaw (friend) on: Dec 22, 2014

• Judy and I are very sorry to hear this news about Barry. It was a shock to us both when we received the e-mail from Gord this morning. We would like The Johnson family to know we are thinking of you all through this very trying time. Jim/Judy McIntyre- Arizona - Posted by: Jim and Judy McIntyre (Friend) on: Dec 22, 2014

• Barry you gave me my first glimpse at a faith that could sustain me in tough times. I will never forget you for that. Namaste - Posted by: Judi McFarland (Friend) on: Dec 22, 2014

• Barry and I were close friends. I am really going to miss him. so many great memories. RIP buddy. - Posted by: andy katz (friend) on: Dec 22, 2014

• For information on a public event or events to honour and remember Barry, please refer to his Facebook page, where I, and some of his good friends, will share stories, pictures, and details on coming events. At this time there will be a private family ceremony only, to be followed after Christmas with some sort of tribute. - Posted by: Bruce Johnson (Brother) on: Dec 22, 2014

• Thank you to each of you for your kind words about Barry and for my family. Such a tough time to deal with a tragic event has been made much easier by the outpouring of concern and support by so many people, from many corners of the world, and from every opportunity Barry had to have such a positive affect on almost everyone he met. - Posted by: Bruce Johnson (Brother) on: Dec 22, 2014

• Great memories of Barry, even though it was some time ago! Grand Beac, Corner Boys, Fort Rouge. Just one of those guys that everyone loved! Nothing but fond memories. My Heart is with his family and frien's All the good guys die young.... Till our paths cross again. Marla xxxx Banff Ab - Posted by: Marla madden (friend ) on: Dec 22, 2014

• So sad to see you go so soon. You have left me with many great memories. (THE SEAHORSE) . Rest well my friend. :( - Posted by: Harry Alberg (friend) on: Dec 21, 2014

• Bruce, My deepest sympathies to you and your family. I was very fortunate to work with you and Barry at the Marble Club for many years. Work relationships became friendship relationships very fast there. It's a time of my life I will never forget, always cherish and know that allot of those special memories is due to both you and Barry. Barry's incredible personality, ease of smile and sparkling blue eyes will be everlasting. It's an honor to say I knew, and became friends with, Barry Johnson. Colleen (Dueck) Grywinski - Posted by: Colleen Grywinski (Friend) on: Dec 21, 2014

• Aunt Lois. I am so very saddened by your loss. Our hearts are truly broken. Gramma Wilma will take such good care of Barry for she loved you like her own daughter. We are here for you always!! Love yoy immensely. Teresa and Craig Plysiuk,Donna Lou, Mackenzie and Connor. - Posted by: Teresa Plysiuk () on: Dec 21, 2014

• My heart is broken for everyone that he crossed paths with! :( - Posted by: Ron & Lou (Louise Lafreniere) Kerr (Long time friends) on: Dec 21, 2014

• lots of great times and many smiles! - Posted by: cameron glass (freind) on: Dec 21, 2014

• If there's a Rock and Roll Heaven, you know they got a hell of a band.....rest in peace Old Friend - Posted by: Karen Moore (friend from the 60's) on: Dec 21, 2014

• I will always use your life lessons Barry, one day at a time as you taught so many of us I am saddened but know you would want everyone you touched to celebrate your life by helping the next guy. So I will continue to do that and will not forget the good times with the old crowd, some whom have also passed. Rest in peace and I hope to cross paths again old friend. - Posted by: Rick H (Old Freind) on: Dec 21, 2014

• So sorry about your loss. My prayers go to you. I didn't know Barry but have spoken to many of his friends from AA. I don't recall hearing about many men that had such a lasting and positive influence in so many lives. Again, I am sorry. - Posted by: Paul Fulton () on: Dec 20, 2014

• Barry is in my Grade Three class photo from Kings Park Elementary school. All of us girls thought he was cute but we were a tad afraid of him as he may have been the first boy our age to wear a jean jacket! We continued through school together right through the '70s. What a tragedy. My condolences to the family. Maureen Jay - Posted by: Maureen Jay (Classmate) on: Dec 20, 2014

• I am so sorry to hear of Brian's passing. That accident hit alot of Winnipeggers hard and left feeling for the family. We all think of you!! - Posted by: Robin Drylick () on: Dec 20, 2014

• TO BRUCE AND THE JOHNSON FAMILY...I AM SO VERY SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT THE LOSS OF YOUR BROTHER AND SON..I REMEMBER BARRY FROM THE DAYS AT THE MARBLE CLUB ..HE WAS ALWAYS FULL OF LIFE AND HE WAS A KIND PERSON..MAY YOU ALL FIND COMFORT. MY SINCERE SYMPATHY.. J. BENNETT - Posted by: JANE BENNETT (FRIEND) on: Dec 20, 2014