Barry Clarke Whitchelo McBride
Barry Clarke Whitchelo McBride
In loving memory of Barry McBride.
This page is for friends & family to share their favourite memories and photos, celebrating all the ways he played a part in our lives.
Obituary
Surrounded by family, Barry Clarke Whitchelo McBride died peacefully and with dignity on October 14th, 2025. Barry was born to Clarke and Phyllis (Whitchelo) McBride in Victoria BC on June 22nd, 1940. The eldest son of a close-knit family, Barry leaves behind his brother Richard (Phyllis), sisters Judith and Kelly (Chris) and the love of his life, wife Barbara. High school sweethearts, Barry and Barbara were married for 62 happy years. His two sons, Christopher (Kate) and David (Michelle), will cherish their memory of a life of adventure and sound advice. Also left to remember their adoring grandfather are grandkids Neve, Kieran (Madi), Lilian, and Faye McBride. His ten nieces and nephews will miss his open heart and keen interest in their lives.
In 1958, Barry started dating Barbara, graduated from Magee High School, and began studying Science at UBC. Although initially more focused on the social side of university life, a third-year microbiology course sparked his interest in academics. After completing a Master’s at UBC and a PhD at the University of Illinois he was recruited back to UBC where he started a highly successful research program and taught microbiology to both Dental and Science students. His contributions to UBC were not limited to the lab and classroom: a recognition of his leadership skills were reflected in the many administrative posts he was appointed to over his tenure at UBC. In 1987, he was appointed Head of Microbiology, then Dean of Science in 1990. He loved this work for the role he played in advancing the goals of the department and faculty, but especially for opportunity to engage and learn from the wonderful faculty and the smart and interested students he was always keen to interact with.
In 1998, he was persuaded to become UBC’s Vice President Academic and Provost, a role through which he continued to promote broader access to post-secondary education and greater equity within the institution. As he was approaching retirement in 2004, he was asked to lead the opening of UBC Okanagan. He was appointed Deputy Vice Chancellor and moved to Kelowna to develop the new campus. He was very proud when the first class graduated in 2007, and prouder still when his grandson and daughter-in-law crossed the stage in the same convocation ceremony in 2022.
Barry also served on several boards and committees, including the Canadian Medical Research Council, U.S. National Institutes of Health committees, BC Cancer Agency Board, Vancouver General Hospital Board, Hamber Foundation Board, and the Bamfield Marine Sciences Board, where he served as President for six years. He never fully gave up his involvement in research, continuing to serve on clinical trials ethics review committees and as a member and Chair of the Pacific Parkinson’s Research Institute Project Panel.
Barry’s life was not defined by his enormous contributions to the world of academia alone. Be it through exploring the mountains and oceans of BC or backpacking through countries throughout the world, Barry and Barbara led a life of adventure. After decades of camping, kayaking, and sailing, they purchased a 36-foot trawler, a fishboat style vessel they named Teleos, an ancient Greek word meaning fulfillment or the achievement of a goal. For over 30 years, Teleos was a gathering place for friends and family. Barry loved being able to share the beauty of the Inside Passage and explore nature with anyone willing to fly in to join them. Barry and Barabara’s curiosity and interest in the world extended well beyond BC’s borders and when boating season ended for the year, they put on their backpacks and roamed the world. At last count they had visited 98 countries, and thanks to a trip to Antarctica in 2019 with sons Chris and David, Barry set foot on all the world’s continents.
Throughout his life, Barry would really listen to and take genuine interest in others, no matter who they were. His curiosity of the world inspired him to continue to try new things and explore all life had to offer. As his Parkinson’s progressed and travel slowed, Barry found great support and camaraderie with peers at Rock Steady Boxing.
The positive legacy of Barry’s life is far reaching but most of all we will remember him for his kindness, his generosity, his curiosity, and his loving support of family.
Gallery
Memory wall
Share your condolences & memories by clicking the "contribute" button below.
January 18, 2026
It was my very good fortune to work for Barry during his years as Provost and then to assist where possible in his start-up work as DVC of UBC Okanagan.
It is trite to say he was the finest boss I ever had, but it's true. His vision, strong moral compass, love of the university, and infectious enthusiasm are just a few of the traits that made Barry an inspiring leader.
I learned, at least I hope I learned, a lot from him in the years we worked together. And the social visits we shared with him and Barb are treasured memories for Loretta and me.
It is trite to say he was the finest boss I ever had, but it's true. His vision, strong moral compass, love of the university, and infectious enthusiasm are just a few of the traits that made Barry an inspiring leader.
I learned, at least I hope I learned, a lot from him in the years we worked together. And the social visits we shared with him and Barb are treasured memories for Loretta and me.
January 15, 2026
I boxed with Barry for 2 years. I was so very lucky to have known him…his huge heart, interest in others, sense of humour and, of course, above all, his courage. I will miss his beautiful, sincere, kind eyes.
Shana White
Shana White
January 12, 2026
My family and I have known Barry for most of my life (nearly 60 years!). Throughout that time, Barry has been a mentor and friend. A happy warrior, Barry set an example for my life in healthcare and helped my career in countless ways. The final complement was the privilege of being his doctor. An intuitive, human and authentic man, Barry exemplified a life of intention, lived according to his values and his conscience. I am profoundly grateful that he was a part of my life.
"...Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;"
"...Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;"
January 5, 2026
Barry was a great man, awesome friend, intelligent and kind individual. I’ll miss him very much and I’m certain he is in better place watching over us.
January 2, 2026
We quickly realised how fortunate we were when Barry and Barbara became our neighbours in Clovelly Walk in the early 70’s. This friendship continued throughout 4 decades in our various homes in Tokyo, Melbourne and on our visits to Vancouver. We appreciated the love Barry and Barbara had for each other, their full lifestyle and their kindness to us.
December 29, 2025
Barry McBride was generous, kind and tolerant mentor and I was very fortunate to have him as my supervisor during my graduate studies at the Microbiology Dept. at UBC. He was a brilliant microbiologist, and was surrounded by phenomenal colleagues, supportive laboratory and dept. staff that made my time in his lab memorable. I am very grateful to him for accepting me a graduate student, which changed my life profoundly. Deepest sympathies to Barbara and his family for their loss.
December 23, 2025
Fabulous Obit Neve! What a fabulous man and contributor to life and UBC - a great mentor for family, academics, and life! He will be missed Kate and Chris!!
December 22, 2025
Today I was googling Barry's name and found this sad news.
My husband Peter and I met them in Nijmegen, the Netherlands in 1979.
Barry was doing research on the lab where my husband worked.
We stayed with them in Vancouver a few times, as well as in Weert and France.
Barbara, I feel so sorry for you and your family. I know what I am talking about as I wish you strenght and wisdom to stand this grief. Love, Ine van Berkel, Weert.
My husband Peter and I met them in Nijmegen, the Netherlands in 1979.
Barry was doing research on the lab where my husband worked.
We stayed with them in Vancouver a few times, as well as in Weert and France.
Barbara, I feel so sorry for you and your family. I know what I am talking about as I wish you strenght and wisdom to stand this grief. Love, Ine van Berkel, Weert.
December 19, 2025
A lifetime of memories, from the first time I met him when he came to the front door asking for Barbara. Mother was cleaning the floor and Barbara was on the back deck sunning herself. Over the years, I always felt welcome in his company, enjoyed vacations on his boat and many family celebrations. He was a great chef who made the most scrumptious desserts. Barry gave the best hugs and was always available to engage in meaningful conversations. A wonderful brother-in-law. Lots of love to you Barry.
December 16, 2025
I met Barry only a few times with Barbara. He was an amazing
listener and such a warm and kind person. My deepest condolences
to the family. Patti
listener and such a warm and kind person. My deepest condolences
to the family. Patti
December 14, 2025
We have known Barry for several decades, indirectly through his family: especially sister Judith our class-mate, his sisters-in-law Nancy and Peggy, and his grand daughters Lillian and Faye.
As UBC students in the 1960's, we admired "Barry & Barb" who led the way! In later years it was always a pleasure to visit at the False Creek condo and share travel stories and admire Barb's beautiful photo albums. We will celebrate Barry's well lived life, with great respect and gratitude for having known him. We express our sympathy and condolences to Barbara and sons Chris and David and their families.
As UBC students in the 1960's, we admired "Barry & Barb" who led the way! In later years it was always a pleasure to visit at the False Creek condo and share travel stories and admire Barb's beautiful photo albums. We will celebrate Barry's well lived life, with great respect and gratitude for having known him. We express our sympathy and condolences to Barbara and sons Chris and David and their families.
December 8, 2025
We have so many wonderful memories of Barry all of which add up to our missing him enormously. Our summer weeklong trips on Teleos were always precious, even when we spent the whole week in rain and fog. There was always an abundance of fresh fish and crab. For me (Mike) Barry was also an exceptional colleague and sounding board during my six years of "deaning." He subsequently was my "boss" for three years, by far the best one I ever had. Barry was always open to new ideas, kind, constructive in his comments, and supportive. I was blessed working with and for him, all of which made our 30+ year friendship possible. He was a uniquely gifted academic leader and an incredibly valued friend. We miss you already.
December 5, 2025
I met Barry in 1971 at UBC wishing that he would take me as a Ph.D. Student for the coming year. Barry accepted to be my director and he was helpful in giving me all the help and tools to successfully terminate my program. Barry also helped me obtain my first job as professor at Laval University. We saw each other a few times later at scientific meetings. To me Barry was a giant in the scientific and academic world while being a calm and kind person. I always viewed him as a model to follow.
Barbara and family, please accept my deepest condolences for your loss.
Barbara and family, please accept my deepest condolences for your loss.
December 4, 2025
What sad news. Barry welcomed me to his lab as a postdoctoral fellow in 1986. He was a remarkable mentor who taught me so much that has guided my future. Besides his exceptional qualities as a researcher, he was a warm and engaging person whom everyone enjoyed being around. My deepest sympathies to all of the McBride family.
Daniel and Linda
Daniel and Linda
December 1, 2025
It was a pleasure and honour to work under the tutelage of Dr. McBride at UBC Okanagan during his tenure there as the Deputy Vice Chancellor. My sincere condolences to his family in its loss.
December 1, 2025
We've been close friends of Barry and Barb McBride for over 50 years. I (Richard) met Barry when he was finishing his studies at U. Illinois and was about to take up his professorship at UBC's Faculty of Dentistry and Department of Microbiology. I was in the final year of my postgraduate studies (periodontology and oral microbiology) in Boston. Then, I hit the jackpot and was recruited to an MRC-supported position in Dentistry at University of Toronto. Barry was among the first whom I contacted when Judy and I immigrated to Canada. We became research buddies, collaborators, and friendly grant competitors. We served together on review/planning committees. We did some hiking, skiing, sailing, and boating together. While Dean of Science, Barry instigated my choosing UBC for a sabbatical year in biotechnology. That year, we became members of the McBride family and are still grateful for the hospitality. Barry was a giant in university/research circles, an exemplary family man and human being. Much missed.
November 29, 2025
I knew Dr. McBride for only a short while during his Dean of Science tenure at UBC but have thought of him and even quoted him in conversations ever since. What a lasting impression he made. He handled his heavy load impressively and with surprising kindness to his support staff, and often spoke of his First Nations students who he believed had a natural scientific mind. I am sure his family is feeling his loss immeasurably. My sincere condolences.
November 27, 2025
I met Barry in 1971 at UBC and quickly became friends. We spent much time together in small boats up the BC coast and in small tents in the coast mountains. There was often alot of rain and alot of conversation. You.get to know a person well in those circumstamstances. He was really smart, really kind, and really dedicated to his family, friends and the academic enterprise.
I will miss him beyond any words possible.
I will miss him beyond any words possible.
November 26, 2025
I remember Barry as a friend and neighbour. We served on our local Strata Council together. I also considered him a wise person.
November 25, 2025
Please accept my sincerest condolences for your loss. I had the privilege of serving on a number of committees with Dr. McBride at UBC in the 1980s and 90s. He was a most capable administrator, but what impressed me the most was the respect he gave to others, regardless of their opinion. That, in turn, earned him the utmost respect from those of us who knew him. He certainly served UBC most admirably.
November 23, 2025
Angela and I send our deepest sympathy to Barb and the family. Our relationship with Barry was founded on a common interest, the ethical issues in human research. Regular discussions were at times followed by social meetings. We will miss his scientific perspective and his company. Don and Angela.
November 3, 2025
Dave and Family.
Our deepest sympathies and condolences to you all. Although we never had the pleasure of meeting Dr. McBride, it is clear that we would have had some wonderful conversations about his many adventures and shared passion for travel and exploration.
Mark Morley, Jody Lynch.
Our deepest sympathies and condolences to you all. Although we never had the pleasure of meeting Dr. McBride, it is clear that we would have had some wonderful conversations about his many adventures and shared passion for travel and exploration.
Mark Morley, Jody Lynch.
October 30, 2025
I am so grateful for Dr. Barry McBride's leadership and care for students, staff and faculty at UBC specifically UBC Okanagan. I am mindful that Dr. McBride's leadership has fostered an environment that has allowed me and my trainees to thrive in the Okanagan. I will always remember Dr. McBride's pride when he was on stage for the graduation of Kieran and Kate. Sending so much kindness and care to the entire McBride family at this time.
October 29, 2025
My appreciation of Barry and lovely Barb is from an early association and affection for the McBride family. I was a university student, and the McBride family home was always open to me. Barry reflected the same warmth and openness as his parents and siblings, for which I have been, and continue to be grateful. My thoughts and condolences go to each one of you, and your extended family. With great affection, Linda Binding
October 27, 2025
It was clear to everyone that Barry was an intelligent man, brilliant, yet never self-important. His kindness certainly touched me and everyone around him, his down-to-earth nature made everyone feel at ease, and I think he had a gift for making people feel comfortable and valued, no matter the conversation.
His decision to leave this world was made with clarity and with the same dignity he lived by.
Barry was one-of-a-kind, if there were more Barry’s in this world it would be a kinder, gentler and happier place
I will never forget him.
With love
His decision to leave this world was made with clarity and with the same dignity he lived by.
Barry was one-of-a-kind, if there were more Barry’s in this world it would be a kinder, gentler and happier place
I will never forget him.
With love
October 27, 2025
I had the pleasure of meeting Barry as his coach for boxing with Parkinsons. Barry was such a natural leader and social convener. He really valued connections with others and sharing his extensive knowledge about all things from boats, Parkinson's, and his life adventures. Barry had a very easy kindness to him, he was modest and approachable. When I was looking for patient partners for a research study, Barry volunteered and added immense value to the project. Sending love to his family and appreciation for the time I got to spend with Barry. He is a wonderful man and may he rest in peace and comfort.
October 27, 2025
As students of the Department of Microbiology, UBC, in the 1980’s and early 1990’s, it was with great sadness to hear of Barry’s passing. We remember him for his leadership in the Department and for his warmth and enthusiasm in engaging with students.
Angela, as Barry’s PhD student, will be forever grateful for his wise guidance through her grad studies. Barry was more than just a PhD supervisor. He welcomed his lab members into his home, and made sure his international students were not alone for the holidays. Barb, Chris and David – thanks for always being so hospitable to Barry’s invitees.
Our thoughts are with all of the McBride family – wishing you comfort in your memories of Barry.
Angela, as Barry’s PhD student, will be forever grateful for his wise guidance through her grad studies. Barry was more than just a PhD supervisor. He welcomed his lab members into his home, and made sure his international students were not alone for the holidays. Barb, Chris and David – thanks for always being so hospitable to Barry’s invitees.
Our thoughts are with all of the McBride family – wishing you comfort in your memories of Barry.
October 23, 2025
Dr. Barry McBride was instrumental with his vision, generosity and unwavering support during the creation and operation of ICORD. His guidance to invest the funds raised by Rick Hansen and matched by UBC into endowed faculty positions – such as the Rick Hansen Man in Motion Chair – allowed the recruitment of new faculty members and planted the seeds of what is today a world class centre in SCI research. ICORD owes Dr. McBride a lot, and he will not be forgotten for his wisdom, insights, and wonderful personality.
My heartfelt condolences, Wolfram Tetzlaff, MD, PhD, former Director ICORD (2013-2023).
My heartfelt condolences, Wolfram Tetzlaff, MD, PhD, former Director ICORD (2013-2023).
October 22, 2025
We remember Barry, especially, for his adoration of Barb and pride in their family, his consistent kindness and good humour, his stimulating conversations, his always sage advice, and the bravery with which he faced his declining health. Barry definitely experienced a life well lived. Through his career, he made outstanding contributions to the world of science and to his beloved UBC. His travel and recreational adventures were a constant source of vitality. He was able to form and maintain solid friendships that brought joy to his own life and to those who were lucky enough to be his friends. Our hearts go out to Barb as she contends with losing the love of her life, and to his family as they suffer the loss of a loving role model and mentor.
October 22, 2025
Barry I will miss you and your humour
October 22, 2025
I have such fond memories of my Uncle Barry—from childhood right through to adulthood. In my heart, he will always be remembered as a big teddy bear who loved connecting with everyone. His laughter and smile had a way of lifting everyone’s spirits. I feel so grateful that Barb and Barry were able to visit us in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, a 2 years ago, where I live with my husband and our two kiddos. It was such a joy to see that same playful spirit I’ve always known as he connected so naturally with Izzy and Emery. Sending love to you all as we grieve his loss and celebrate his wonderful life.
October 21, 2025
I will forever miss boxing with Barry...
As Barry's boxing coach at Rock Steady Boxing I had the honour of 'fighting back' with Barry for the last 8 years. He brought such a special energy to our classes. He was positive, humble, funny, dedicated, determined, friendly, kind, he was a friend to everyone. He led a cheer for the whole class at the end of every session. He was the first to welcome new boxers to our classes, and the first to befriend our volunteers (usually UBC students, who he loved to connect with). I absolutely loved teaching him, he inspired me every class. He was a true fighter, and it was so nice to have him in my corner. My condolences to Barb and the whole family, which I heard so many stories about over the years. We will miss you so much, Barry!
As Barry's boxing coach at Rock Steady Boxing I had the honour of 'fighting back' with Barry for the last 8 years. He brought such a special energy to our classes. He was positive, humble, funny, dedicated, determined, friendly, kind, he was a friend to everyone. He led a cheer for the whole class at the end of every session. He was the first to welcome new boxers to our classes, and the first to befriend our volunteers (usually UBC students, who he loved to connect with). I absolutely loved teaching him, he inspired me every class. He was a true fighter, and it was so nice to have him in my corner. My condolences to Barb and the whole family, which I heard so many stories about over the years. We will miss you so much, Barry!
October 21, 2025
We are so sad to lose such a special friend.
Alan worked with Barry within the Faculty of Dentistry, and thereafter in the university community.
Pauline worked with Barry in his Microbiology lab at UBC, and subsequently at UBC Academic.
We both have wonderful memories of adventures with Barry and Barb on Teleos, of meals, walks, and animated conversations over the years. His courage and fortitude in the last challenging period has been yet another inspiration.
Rest in peace, dear friend.
Alan worked with Barry within the Faculty of Dentistry, and thereafter in the university community.
Pauline worked with Barry in his Microbiology lab at UBC, and subsequently at UBC Academic.
We both have wonderful memories of adventures with Barry and Barb on Teleos, of meals, walks, and animated conversations over the years. His courage and fortitude in the last challenging period has been yet another inspiration.
Rest in peace, dear friend.
October 21, 2025
In ever loving memory of Barry.
It was a very sad day when my friend of over 30 years and co in-law passed away. I could not have chosen out of the whole World a more respected or loving man to be my daughter Kate’s Father in-law or Barbara as Mother in-law. SO many happy memories of family gatherings, Birthdays, Christmas’s and Holidays. A funny story I will always remember of us catching over 300 shrimp, sitting on the deck of Teleos. Head and tailing them and Barry going so quick throwing perfectly peeled shrimp back into the sea and heads and tails into the pot. We did laugh!!
He always greeted with a smile and always a hug! I will miss him, my family will miss him and my friends who knew him will miss him. He will always be in our hearts and never ever forgotten.
Rest in peace my friend.. love Barry C
It was a very sad day when my friend of over 30 years and co in-law passed away. I could not have chosen out of the whole World a more respected or loving man to be my daughter Kate’s Father in-law or Barbara as Mother in-law. SO many happy memories of family gatherings, Birthdays, Christmas’s and Holidays. A funny story I will always remember of us catching over 300 shrimp, sitting on the deck of Teleos. Head and tailing them and Barry going so quick throwing perfectly peeled shrimp back into the sea and heads and tails into the pot. We did laugh!!
He always greeted with a smile and always a hug! I will miss him, my family will miss him and my friends who knew him will miss him. He will always be in our hearts and never ever forgotten.
Rest in peace my friend.. love Barry C
October 19, 2025
Carolyn and I were very sorry to hear of Barry’s passing. He was a
good friend, a trusted colleague, and an exceptional administrator.
I had the opportunity to work with him on several projects, first when he was Dean, and later when he became Provost. He was always calm, level-headed, generous, and looked for positive outcomes.
One story started with him asking me to serve on a review of the Faculty of Medicine.This meant a steep learning curve, late nights doing due diligence, and in the end I learned far more than I expected about the Faculty.
Besides all this, Barry had the boat and many travelling adventures with Barb. He has had a rewarding, fulfilling life and we shall miss him enormously.
good friend, a trusted colleague, and an exceptional administrator.
I had the opportunity to work with him on several projects, first when he was Dean, and later when he became Provost. He was always calm, level-headed, generous, and looked for positive outcomes.
One story started with him asking me to serve on a review of the Faculty of Medicine.This meant a steep learning curve, late nights doing due diligence, and in the end I learned far more than I expected about the Faculty.
Besides all this, Barry had the boat and many travelling adventures with Barb. He has had a rewarding, fulfilling life and we shall miss him enormously.
October 18, 2025
Barry: an exceptional colleague and a very special friend.
I, Derek, worked for and with Barry for six years in the Provost’s office at UBC. He was exceptional as Provost/Vice President Academic - in the imaginative way he approached problems; in the respectful way he worked with people, be they students or Deans; his generosity in sharing achievements; and his extraordinary ability to make tasks rewarding and simply lots of fun.
During the years since his retirement, Stella and I have shared many activities with Barry and Barb. Barry became an enthusiastic and knowledgeable “twitcher”, and we made many birding walks with Barb and Barry, including a memorable birding adventure joining us at Big Bar Lake in the Cariboo. They took us exploring the inside passage on their boat, and we enjoyed music concerts at the VSO and just simply sharing many meals together.
We miss you already,
Derek and Stella Atkins.
I, Derek, worked for and with Barry for six years in the Provost’s office at UBC. He was exceptional as Provost/Vice President Academic - in the imaginative way he approached problems; in the respectful way he worked with people, be they students or Deans; his generosity in sharing achievements; and his extraordinary ability to make tasks rewarding and simply lots of fun.
During the years since his retirement, Stella and I have shared many activities with Barry and Barb. Barry became an enthusiastic and knowledgeable “twitcher”, and we made many birding walks with Barb and Barry, including a memorable birding adventure joining us at Big Bar Lake in the Cariboo. They took us exploring the inside passage on their boat, and we enjoyed music concerts at the VSO and just simply sharing many meals together.
We miss you already,
Derek and Stella Atkins.
October 18, 2025
So very sorry to hear this news. We have so many wonderful memories of times spent with Barry and Barbara, especially on the boats and camping in the Southwest. We will miss him terribly.
With love,
Tom and Jan
With love,
Tom and Jan
October 16, 2025
I hold so many beautiful memories of visits with Uncle Barry and Aunt Barb at their home in West Van as a child.
Uncle Barry had this amazing presence about him. A calm steady, warm energy ,that as a child felt so comforting. As an adult he always remembered what I was doing for work or studying and would be so thoughtful in conversation. He was quick to smile and would be so fully engaged in even the most simple interactions.
It was a delight when I became a parent to see "Great" Uncle Barry in action. I remember one particular memory when my son, who is now 10 ,was out on the small deck in their apartment with Barry. Theo kept bringing items for Barry to smell as he had convinced Theo that his "smeller" (ie his nose) didn't work. This delighted little Theo completely. Barry's ability to slip into an imaginary world and make anyone feel magical and build connection was truly a gift.
In one of the saddest moments of my life, I also remember Barry and Barb being ever present and steady. Offering their home for our family to gather. Barry connecting with guests who he barely new and welcoming them into his home in the most sincere way. Barb coordinating food. I know they were this same anchor for many of our family members, their friends and community members.
A recent memory, is attending Barb and Barry's wedding anniversary. I remember Barry's speech to Barb. He was so eloquent, sharp, and funny and most memorable you could see the strong shining love in his eyes and in his words, for the love of his life, my amazing Aunt Barb. As a young married person, their love for each other will always be an inspiration.
Uncle Barry you hold such a special place in my heart. Thank-you for living life so fully and sharing so much love and kindness with our family. You lived a truly remarkable life, are a truly remarkable person and you will be deeply missed.
Love,
Your Niece
Carla (Taylor) Black
Uncle Barry had this amazing presence about him. A calm steady, warm energy ,that as a child felt so comforting. As an adult he always remembered what I was doing for work or studying and would be so thoughtful in conversation. He was quick to smile and would be so fully engaged in even the most simple interactions.
It was a delight when I became a parent to see "Great" Uncle Barry in action. I remember one particular memory when my son, who is now 10 ,was out on the small deck in their apartment with Barry. Theo kept bringing items for Barry to smell as he had convinced Theo that his "smeller" (ie his nose) didn't work. This delighted little Theo completely. Barry's ability to slip into an imaginary world and make anyone feel magical and build connection was truly a gift.
In one of the saddest moments of my life, I also remember Barry and Barb being ever present and steady. Offering their home for our family to gather. Barry connecting with guests who he barely new and welcoming them into his home in the most sincere way. Barb coordinating food. I know they were this same anchor for many of our family members, their friends and community members.
A recent memory, is attending Barb and Barry's wedding anniversary. I remember Barry's speech to Barb. He was so eloquent, sharp, and funny and most memorable you could see the strong shining love in his eyes and in his words, for the love of his life, my amazing Aunt Barb. As a young married person, their love for each other will always be an inspiration.
Uncle Barry you hold such a special place in my heart. Thank-you for living life so fully and sharing so much love and kindness with our family. You lived a truly remarkable life, are a truly remarkable person and you will be deeply missed.
Love,
Your Niece
Carla (Taylor) Black
October 16, 2025
In Loving Memory of Barry
Barry lived a full and extraordinary life — a life rich with adventure, purpose, and kindness. But beyond all his remarkable achievements and travels, I will always remember Barry simply as my neighbour for so many wonderful years.
He was a legend — a true cornerstone of our little community. Always ready to lend a hand, contribute, and give generously of his time. Barry had a rare ability to stay calm, see the bigger picture, and bring perspective to any situation. He was the voice of reason and a source of quiet strength for so many of us.
An adventurer at heart, Barry embraced life with enthusiasm and courage — whether spending months on the water with his beloved Barbara, journeying to Antarctica with his sons, or trekking through remote corners of the world with nothing but a backpack and his boundless curiosity. He loved people, and people loved him.
Always cool, calm, and collected — a natural leader with a gentle spirit. A beautiful soul who made the world, and our neighbourhood, a better place just by being in it.
I will miss our conversations, his steady wisdom, and his easy smile.
Goodbye, dear friend. You’ll be forever missed — especially at our potlucks, where your presence always made everything feel complete.
Lyne & Germain
Barry lived a full and extraordinary life — a life rich with adventure, purpose, and kindness. But beyond all his remarkable achievements and travels, I will always remember Barry simply as my neighbour for so many wonderful years.
He was a legend — a true cornerstone of our little community. Always ready to lend a hand, contribute, and give generously of his time. Barry had a rare ability to stay calm, see the bigger picture, and bring perspective to any situation. He was the voice of reason and a source of quiet strength for so many of us.
An adventurer at heart, Barry embraced life with enthusiasm and courage — whether spending months on the water with his beloved Barbara, journeying to Antarctica with his sons, or trekking through remote corners of the world with nothing but a backpack and his boundless curiosity. He loved people, and people loved him.
Always cool, calm, and collected — a natural leader with a gentle spirit. A beautiful soul who made the world, and our neighbourhood, a better place just by being in it.
I will miss our conversations, his steady wisdom, and his easy smile.
Goodbye, dear friend. You’ll be forever missed — especially at our potlucks, where your presence always made everything feel complete.
Lyne & Germain
October 16, 2025
Barry was my dearest colleague and friend. I miss him enormously. There are so many wonderful memories to share that I would fill up this space many times over if I tried to capture even a small number. One particular memory that is not easily forgotten is from one of our fishing trips. We had just finished dinner, and I was washing out the big pot we had used to boil the crabs we had caught. In my enthusiasm to rinse the crab pot, I tossed it into the sea while rinsing. I did manage to find a replacement as soon as we got home and that one lasted for years without my rinsing efforts. Lots of love to you Barry.
Debs and Mike
Debs and Mike
Celebration of Life
Please join us to celebrate the life of Barry McBride.
If you are able to attend, your presence would mean a great deal to us during this time of remembrance and reflection.
If you are able to attend, your presence would mean a great deal to us during this time of remembrance and reflection.
Donate
In lieu of flowers or gifts, consider donating to Parkinson Society British Columbia in honour of Barry. Donations are welcome but not necessary.
https://parkinson.bc.ca/ways-to-give#
https://parkinson.bc.ca/ways-to-give#
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