Dr. Lawrence Ross Coates BARCLAY

DR. LAWRENCE ROSS COATES BARCLAY It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Dr. Lawrence Ross Coates Barclay, age 92, of Sackville, NB. Ross passed away August 12, 2021. Born in Wentworth, NS, he was a son of the late Neil and Mary (Clancy) Barclay. Ross was a world renowned researcher and Organic Chemistry professor. He attended the one room school house in Wentworth until grade nine. He was so passionate about higher education that he left his family home in Wentworth to board with the Layton family in Great Village, NS in order to complete high school. He went on to study chemistry at Mount Allison University where he met Helen Fraser, the love of his life. They spent the first year of their marriage in London, England while Ross continued his studies having received the Lord Beaverbrook Scholarship. After earning his MSc and PhD they returned to Sackville where they built their home and raised their three children. Ross began his research and teaching career at MTA until his retirement. Ross was Professor Emeritus and received the Hebert & Leota Tucker Award of Excellence in teaching and research. He was also awarded the Order of Canada for his pioneering work in the Chemistry field. Ross coached Sackville Minor hockey for 20 years, played tennis, skied downhill and cross country and thoroughly enjoyed Pickleball into his 90s. He was passionate about gardening and took great pride in his gardens and yard. He could be seen puttering in his yard from dusk to dawn and was always sure to grow enough beets for Helen to pickle. Ross was known for being a gentleman and a family man. He took pride in being involved in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Most of all he adored his wife Helen. Anyone who had the privilege of knowing them knew they had something special. We take great comfort in knowing they are together again. A life well lived. He will be sadly missed by his sons Gregor (Sally), Trinidad, Michael (Judy), Fall River, NS; daughter Nancy Tregunno, Halifax, NS; 6 grandchildren, David, Andrew, Megan, Brett, Emily and Ali; 7 great-grandchildren Layla, Sadie, Talia, Jackson, Roman, Jane and Avery; as well as a number of nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, the former Helen M. Fraser; brother Roy, sister Marion Hunt, an infant sister, and by son-in-law Tim Tregunno. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care and supervision of Jones Funeral Home, 70 Bridge St., Sackville (506-364-1300). Ross's life will be celebrated at the Mount Allison University Chapel at a later date. Donations in memory of Ross may be made to Friends of the Old Wentworth Valley School House, 233 Wentworth Station Road, Wentworth, NS B0M 1Z0, Mount Allison University at www.MtA.ca/donate/, or the charity of your choice. Heartfelt thanks to Ella May and Nicole who became part of the family and allowed Ross to live independently in the home he built until his final day. Sharing of memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting Ross's online memorial at www.jonesfuneralhome.ca or through the Jones Funeral Home Facebook Page.