Beloved Husband, Father, and Grandfather. It is with profound sadness that the family announces the sudden and unexpected passing of Barry Norman Card in his 78th year. He was the beloved husband of Linda Sharron Card for 55 years, and a devoted father to Michelle (Alex), Cindy, and Christine (Hugh). Barry’s four cherished grandchildren—Abigail, Lexie, James, and Luke—brought him immense joy. He was predeceased by his parents, Vonne and Ethel Card, and his brother Blair. He is survived by his loving sister, Sharon (Glen), who resides in Paisley, Ontario. Barry grew up in Rexdale and attended North Albion Collegiate before earning his degree in Chemistry from the University of Waterloo. On August 29, 1970, he married the love of his life, Linda. In a true testament to their devotion, the newlyweds lived together in the married dorms during his final year of university, beginning a lifetime of love, partnership, and unwavering commitment to one another. After graduation, Barry began his career at CanLab, a pharmaceutical company, which took him and his young family across the country – to Winnipeg, then Vancouver, where Michelle was born in 1973, and Edmonton, where Cindy was born in 1975. Eventually, Barry returned to Ontario, choosing stability for his family over further transfers, and began work at Syntex Pharmaceuticals. Christine, his youngest daughter, was born in 1980, completing his perfect family. Barry was the ultimate family man. He consistently put his loved ones first, commuting daily from Milton to Scarborough to ensure that his daughter’s home, school, and friendships would never be disrupted – a quiet act of love for which his family will be forever grateful. Early in his career, he even worked a second job at a pizza place to provide extra support, sometimes waking his daughters late at night to share a special dessert pizza. Barry’s love for his family was matched by his enthusiasm for life. He was an avid roller skater, spending Saturday mornings taking his daughters to lessons and skating alongside them. When Christine was a toddler, he would place a “Boom Box” in the stroller and skate behind it while taking his older daughters to the park—a scene etched in the family’s memory forever. As a passionate car enthusiast, Barry shared his love of automobiles with his daughters, taking them to auto shows every February and sparking their imaginations. His knowledge, enthusiasm, and insight earned the admiration of everyone who knew him. At home, Barry was the quintessential “fun dad,” often transforming an empty living room into a playful “rides room,” where he spent hours flipping his girls into the air and balancing them on his feet. It is a memory his daughters will carry with them forever. Known for his humour, Barry gave everyone around him playful nicknames – his daughters included. He was also exceptionally intelligent, having skipped a grade in school, and was especially gifted in Math and Science. His family fondly remembers his attempts to tutor them, often offering small bribes just to keep them at the table. Barry’s remarkable talent for fixing anything earned him admiration from friends and family alike; he would always arrive with his toolbox in hand, ready for anything. As a grandfather, affectionately known as Grandpa Strawberry by his granddaughters, his sweetness, playfulness, and curiosity continued to shine. His family often referred to his quirky and brilliant musings as “Random Thoughts by Barry Card,” a testament to his one-of-a-kind mind. Barry and his wife, Linda, were unwavering supporters of their grandsons’ hockey pursuits, faithfully attending practices, games, and tournaments with boundless pride. James and Luke will deeply feel the absence of their devoted and enthusiastic grandfather. When Abigail and Lexie were younger, Barry was also a steadfast supporter at their cheerleading competitions. Despite the overwhelming volume and energy of the events, he never missed a chance to be there, cheering them on with the same love and dedication he showed in every part of his life. Barry leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, dedication, and unforgettable memories. His family is profoundly grateful to have shared their lives with him. He is survived by his beloved wife, three daughters, four grandchildren, and faithful dog Riley, all of whom adored him deeply. Barry was an avid supporter of the Heart and Stroke Foundation and would be honoured if donations were made in his name. At this time, a formal service will not be held. Instead, a celebration of life will be planned for a later date, to honour Barry – a truly magnificent man. Arrangements entrusted to the Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home.
www.grahamgiddyfh.com
(519) 843-3100