With great sadness we announce the passing of Harry Barnes, known as “Barnesy” to many. A stoic Newfoundlander, he leaves a very large and inclusive group of family and friends to mourn his loss: his loving wife of 55 years, Joan; daughter Laurie (John); Katie (Jason); Sheila (Howard); Madeline; Vera (Austin); Donna (John); and all those special people who just belonged in his life.
Harry was extremely proud of his 18 years in the Canadian Armed Forces – he loved the challenges and most of all the relationships that extended into retirement following his service with the Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada, the Canadian Airborne Regiment, and the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI). He was deployed on two peacekeeping tours in Cyprus and one in Egypt. Reunions, luncheons and dinners, he would be found sharing stories and memories of his many exploits, including “jumping out of those perfectly safe aircraft”, climbing Monte Bianco in Italy, and exercises from Alaska to Jamaica. Remembrance Day would see him laying the Airborne wreath at the Langford service.
Following his military retirement in 1984, Harry served for 18 years as a Correctional Officer with VIRCC retiring in 2002.
A Boston Bruins fan from an early age, Harry’s love of hockey knew no boundaries. He was a passionate organizer who cared and loved promoting the game for all ages. And you know he really liked his Bruins’ teams to win.
A Celebration of Harry’s Life will be held at the Chief and Petty Officers Mess, 1575 Lyall Street, Victoria, BC on Sunday, October 25th, 2026, at 1:00pm.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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