James Barry Wilwand

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of our father and grandfather, Barry Wilwand, in Duncan, BC.

He is predeceased by his father William Wilwand and mother Gladys Wilwand (nee Little) and his beloved baby sister, Peg Brownie (Jim).

He is survived by his wife, Laurene (nee Mehaffey) of 52 years; 5 children, DeeAnne, Michael (Michelle), Lee (Shannon), Kim (Craig) and Josh (Shauna); 23 grandchildren, Amanda (Chad), J.J., Riyan, Tyler, Matthew, McKelle, Micah (Malorie), Mitchell, Max, Mason, Colette (Levi), Seth, Taylor-Anne, Cassidy, Haley, Makenzie, Zachary, Cody, Allison, Brynlee, Nathan, Katelyn, and Kinzlee; 2 great grandchildren, Stanley and Ella; beloved sister Patricia.

Barry was born in Winnipeg, MB, the oldest of 3 children. When he was 5 years old, his Dad and Uncles enlisted, and all went overseas for World War II. This was a formative event in his life as it meant that he was now the man of the house. Barry moved to British Columbia when he was a young man, where he had many adventurous jobs and experiences. He met his love, Laurene, while he was a flight instructor and, she, a flight student in Smithers, BC. They were married in 1967. After 4 children and various moves in and around BC, Barry, Laurene and their family moved to Kenora, ON in 1978 to Grandma Wilwand’s camp on Sunnyside Road, where their 5th child was born. Barry was Chief Pilot for Kenora Air and River Air. Barry’s love was flying. “When once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return.” - Leonardo DaVinci. Another of his greatest pleasures was being the owner/operator of Delaney Lake Lodge; an American plan, fly-in fishing lodge. Barry and Laurene retired and moved to Vancouver Island, BC in 2005, where they enjoyed their RV with their dog, Sammy.

Barry had numerous roles in his life, some of which included: vacuum salesman, high diver, RCMP officer, Police Sergeant, Fire Chief, homesteader, cowboy, John Deere salesman, rancher, truck owner/operator, Father, Boppie, storyteller. If you knew Barry, you’ve probably heard a story or two. If you’re a family member you’ve probably heard each story a dozen times or two. Etched into our minds forever, the words of a storyteller. Rest easy Boppie, until we meet again.

Thank you to Dr. Broere for his kind and compassionate care over the past 15 years. To the nurses and health care aids at Sunridge - a million thanks for caring for our Dad with such love and respect. We appreciate you.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 28th, 2020, at 12:00 pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 1815 Tzouhalem Rd., Duncan, BC. Luncheon will be served directly after the service.