Barrie James Wade

Wade, Barrie James: July 15, 1937 - May 1, 2024 Born to Sidney and Kathleen Wade in Penticton BC, Barrie fought a courageous battle with leukemia and will forever be lovingly remembered by his wife of 44 years Lise, children Michael (Tracey) and Rodney (predeceased), grandchildren Sophie and Cooper, sister Carol (predeceased), niece Kathy and nephews Mark and Dean, and his many friends. Being born and raised in Penticton, Barrie was an authentic Okanagan kid and proud of it. After attending Pen-Hi, Barrie started a long career as a pressman/foreman for the Penticton Herald newspaper, where he established himself as a key member of the Herald staff and was a respected and essential asset for every editor he worked with until his retirement. From an early age, Barrie had a love and passion for all sports and excelled at the many he played most notably baseball, hockey, and skiing. A sense of community, and a keen appreciation for what made people and athletes successful took him down the path of coaching. He devoted many years and countless hours researching, learning, and applying his knowledge and enthusiasm to the craft. That dedication was more than evident with the regional, provincial, and national success the local amateur teams and young athletes he coached attained in both hockey and alpine skiing. Apart from his coaching skills, it was his way with people that will be remembered most. His integrity, humour, warm heart, and sense of ease were the roots of enduring friendships formed with young and old, and continued to be the hallmarks of his life. Simply put, everyone felt better after time with Barrie. At his core, and what shone brightest, was his love of family. From early in life, to the later years, he was the quintessential son, brother, husband, Dad, uncle, and grandpa, always providing genuine love, care, and wisdom. Later in life, big surprise! Barrie discovered new interests, and as expected dove headfirst into windsurfing, mountain biking and running. Many summers were spent renting a house at the Gorge with his stinky Teva sandals, windsurfing with Mike and Rod trying to outdo each other perfecting their gybes, yet not annoying Lise and Tracey as to jeopardize a needed meal, and a much more needed dose of reality. Barrie was an original member of the Penticton Pounders running club and it was a common sight to see him running around Penticton at lunchtime training for a race, marathon or just for the joy of it. He continued his lifelong passion for skiing into his 70's, loving every perfect turn and then blended more exercise with wonderful friendships by becoming a regular at the Penticton Community Center pool. Barrie leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and wisdom. In his memory, let us honor his spirit by embracing each day with joy and remembering his cherished words, 'enjoy yourself'. Though he may no longer walk among us, his light will continue to shine through the lives he touched, reminding us to savor every moment and find happiness in the simplest of pleasures. The family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to nurses and staff at the Penticton Regional Hospital lab and transfusion department, Dr. La Cock, Dr. Hodgins, palliative home care nurses Rachel and Carrie, and the amazing team at the Moog and Friends Hospice House. Thank you so much for your kindness and care. In keeping with Barrie's wishes there will be no formal service. Condolences and tributes may be left for the family by visiting www.everdenrust.com