Obituary of Hugh James Barr

HUGH JAMES BARR

FEBRUARY 20, 1952 – JUNE 27, 2017

It is with deep sadness that we announce the unexpected but peaceful death of Hugh James Barr on Tuesday, June 27, 2017.  He was the beloved son of Constance Barr Langstaff and the late Thomas James Barr and the adored brother of Margaret Barr (Paul Fisher) and Jennifer Barr (Phillip Saunders).  He was an incredibly special uncle to James Fisher (Erika Stokes), Chris Fisher, Alix Wharin (Curtis), Tessa Saunders and Mark Saunders.  Hugh was a wonderfully attentive son to Connie, visiting her regularly, never arriving without treats from his local bakery.

Hugh grew up in Thornhill, Ontario, where he was so fortunate to have a great group of friends, who have remained close and loyal to this day.  Thornhill was a wonderful place to grow up; a village where everybody walked to school with their friends and came home for lunch.  Every night the Barr family sat down to one of Connie’s remarkable home cooked dinners and was regaled with tales of adventure from Jim’s youth.  Hugh continued this tradition and he became famous for his legendary lunches, which always featured devilled eggs.

He attended the University of Guelph, where he met Valerie Jones, who in later years, became a special part of his life.

Hugh made his home in the Kawartha region, an area he loved, where he built one house himself (with the help of friends and family), completely remodeled another and finally settled in a house that needed no renovations!

To say that he was devoted to his cats is an understatement.  Apparently, word got out in the cat community that Hugh’s was the place to go for a meal and a warm bed.  Over the years he took in many strays that all became part of his family.

The family would like to thank June, Jarret and Dave for their constant support over many years.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Hugh’s memory to The Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Kawartha Lakes Animal Wellness Society (KLAWS).

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, July 14th at the Thornhill Golf & Country Club, 7994 Yonge Street, Thornhill, from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.  Condolences, photographs and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymilesnewbigging.com.