Barry Russell McQuay January 8, 1946 to January 10, 2016.

With mingled sorrow and joy we announce the safe passing of Barry McQuay on Sunday, January 10, surrounded by his family, after he bravely faced a difficult experience of a complex form of cancer. Barry was husband to his soul mate Peri, proud and loving father to Morgan (Rick) and Jeremy (Karen), cherished grandfather to Liam and Natalie; dear brother to George (Barbara) and uncle to Mark , Pamela, Addison and McKenzie McQuay; Shaun, Sarah, Sophie, Isla, Macai and Lyric McQuay; Ashley, Eric and Skylar Newstead. Loving brother-in-law to Lisa Moses and uncle to Megan Conboy (Ryan, Nick, Max) and Michael Trickett.

The many people whom his life touched will fondly remember him. Barry was a passionate outdoor education teacher, celebrating nature at Westport’s Foley Mountain Conservation Area where he and Peri lived and worked for 31 years. Through this work he inspired many generations of children to cherish nature and care for our environment.

He always had great joy in meeting people and having long conversations. Often getting “lost” on trips into town, Barry was a rare human in today’s harried rushed world. He took the time to get to know people and to show a genuine care in their lives. Indeed, right up to his last days he took happiness from family and friends. All who knew him are richer for the experience.To paraphrase Irving Berlin, ‘Barry’s song has ended, but the melody lingers on’. The next time you are enjoying nature remember him.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Foley Mountain CA education fund or Perth Hospice Palliative Care Services would be appreciated.

Special thanks to all the kind staff of CCAC and Kidd 9 for their exceptional care.

A gathering in memory of Barry is planned for May 14th at 2:00-4:00 PM at the Interpretive Center Foley Mountain Conservation Area

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