It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Barnett Smith surrounded by the love of his family on December 17, 2024 at the age of 82.
Barry was fun loving, intelligent, well read, competitive, hard-working, resourceful, adventurous, inventive, and a sensitive person with a great sense of humour that always carried him through the tough spots in life.
He was an avid outdoors man, fisherman, camper and hunter and spent many childhood summers in the wilderness of Ontario. His commitment and love of the environment led him to a thriving career as a Professional Forester for the MNR for over 27 years until he retired. He had a strong voice in the forest policy development and decision making process which was a crucial element of the province's environment and economy. After he retired, he mastered a new skill building furniture for friends, family and as consignment pieces. His life was a testament to the power of passion, dedication and love.
Cherished Husband, Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather. Left to mourn his immeasurable loss is his devoted wife, Janet of 42 years - his best friend and the person who deified the daily storms of life at his side. Treasured and loving Father of Vanessa, Jeannine (Andrew), Bobbi-Jo (Ted), April (Margo) and Shelly (Kevin). His guidance and support as a parent will be lovingly remembered and profoundly missed.
His favourite people called him Papa or Pops. The lessons he imparted and his presence in their lives along with a world of love has left lasting memories to cherish for their lifetime. Deeply missed by Savannah, Darcy (Kyra), Tristan (Julie) and Robert. Great Grandfather to Janessa and Walker.
Predeceased by his parents Bernice and Cedric, his brother Tim, sister-in-law Brenda and brother-in-law Wesley. He will be dearly missed by his fishing partner and brother-in-law Jim (Terrie), and his sister-in-law's Terrie, Kathleen and Judy.
He will be missed by his many cousins he made childhood memories with. He will be truly missed and thought of often by his longtime friend, colleague and wood working partner Peter Gagnon.
The family extends their heart felt gratitude to his medical team, specialists and health care professionals. Words cannot express the excellent, kind and compassionate care provided by Dr. Barbeau, Dr. Apostle, Dr. Booth, Dr. Barry, Heather from SAH, Marcy at Paramed, the staff at Carepartners and Maggie at Ontario @ Health, Val from Alzheimers, Maria and Tera from Geriatrics and the amazing team of personnel at ARCH. Your exceptional performance, dedication & willingness to go the extra mile was so appreciated. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
No time on earth is long enough to share with those we love or to prepare our hearts for good-bye. He will be dearly missed. Safe in the hands of God.
In lieu of flowers please plant a tree, lighten someone’s day with humour, donate to a charity of your choice, or simply spend quality time with your family for they are your richest blessings.
If you wish, Donations can be made to ARCH Hospice of Sault Ste. Marie or the Sault Area Hospital Foundation (Payable online or by cheque).
Cremation has taken place.
Visit www.osullivanfuneralhome.com to leave condolences for the family. Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home (215 St. James St., Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6A 1P7, 705-759-8456).