Barry died May 20th, 2026, at home in Victoria, BC surrounded by his loving family. Survived by his wife of 61 years, Loretta Cree and children Jeanne Gordon (Jason), Tina Richards (Stephen) and Adrian Cree (Mia), brother Gerry Cree (Carol) and sister Susan McFadyen (Robin), beloved grandchildren, Lucy, Jack, Jane, Grace, Will, Kate and Harry and his many beloved nieces and nephews and cherished friends.
Dad was born in Duncan, BC and raised at beautiful Mesachie Lake where his father worked at the Hillcrest Lumber mill. He spoke often of Mesachie Lake as it was the impetus for his lifelong love of nature, outdoor activities and a pride and respect for the British Columbia forestry industry. He attended St. Michaels’s University School as a boarder for his senior high school years playing rugby, part of the track team (held the honour of fastest 100yds on Vancouver Island for a short time – a story we all loved!) and created lifelong friendships. After graduation Dad moved to Vancouver where he met his wife Lory at the TD Bank on Oak and 15th. They were married in 1964 and began their family soon after.
Dad was involved in businesses throughout his life – from work in California, Nanaimo, Courtenay and eventually in Sooke BC. In Sooke, he joined his father at the Sooke Irly Bird which he ran for many years as he and Mum raised their family. It was a wonderful place for his family to grow up, and he became an integral part of many local organizations from the Sooke Chamber of Commerce and volunteering at All Sooke Day. He was a small-town person at heart and wherever he lived or worked he always was quick to establish deep friendships. Everyone who met Dad would comment on his beautiful smile, friendly nature, consistently positive outlook on life and of course his wonderful sense of humour. Until the end resilience was a constant theme of his life.
Life took Mum and Dad to Langford, Colwood, Salt Spring Island, Saanich and eventually Victoria in later years where dad continued with small businesses. Dad never truly retired as his insatiable curiosity, impressive energy, multiple business and building skills and creativity kept him involved in many pursuits: The start up and management of a moulding store, manufacturing Adirondack chairs, helping his daughter and son in-law renovate apartment units with his son Adrian, managing a gulf island resort and making wooden children’s furniture as “The Chairman” as well as many other ventures.
Dad travelled a lot in later years escaping rainy BC winters in Palm Springs with Lory, of course driving the entire way and regular family trips to his favourite Tofino beach. As a spiritual man, he always noted he felt God the most on the beach in Tofino.
Family was the most important thing to Dad and we all felt that. As his kids we were always loved and guided, and we see his beautiful spirit live through his grandkids who he was immensely proud of.
Our family would like to thank the wonderful staff at RJH and the VIHA Palliative Team. A special thank you to the entire Hospital at Home team for your truly exemplary care of Dad during his final weeks.
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McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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