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BORN
1939
DIED
2020
Barry Gelling Obituary
Memories and Condolences
for Barry Gelling
43 Entries
David Stuart Watson
February 1, 2024
Having moved from Victoria many years ago, I was unaware of Dr. Gelling's passing. Dr. Gelling was to me, a kind and considerate physician who tried to help anyone, in any way he could... including myself.
David Stuart Watson, Calgary, Alberta.
Brian
April 20, 2022
My deepest sympathies to the family and friends.
Barry was my 1st GP when I moved to Victoria in 88, and he was always an amazingly empathetic man. He helped me more than words can ever convey.
Rest well, good sir.
Stacey B.
October 8, 2020
I was one one of those 1000+ babies! I can remember being sent home from the hospital and my Mother insisting that I did not "just have the flu". About 5 days later, Dr. Gelling called my mother to say that his office had received a copy of the lab work and they determined it was meningitis and I needed to return to the hospital. He also drove out to Sooke in the evening when I had the measles. He was kind, gentle, and got me through that very awkward teenage stage of transitioning from going to the doctor with your parents, to going there by yourself. I moved away to Vancouver after graduation but continued to come back to Victoria just to see my favourite doctor. Condolences to his family and friends.
Diahana
August 12, 2020
I was one of those babies that he delivered, and one of the last. I was born in 1993 and though I was still young when Dr. Gelling retired I still remember the happy faces he drew on the tongue compressors for me to take home. I am so thankful to the joy that he brought to myself and also to my mom. Dr. Gelling will be genuinely missed.
Marnie Essery
June 21, 2020
Our family was blessed to have Dr Gelling as a family doctor for many years and he was always caring and positive. He will be missed.
Danny & Colleen Cain
June 7, 2020
He was my Doctor for 37 years until he retired. We last enjoyed a lovely lunch at their cabin with Barry and Sheila. He was like a father to me. We will miss him dearly.
Lorrie Klee
May 5, 2020
My sincerest condolences on Dr. Gelling's passing.He was my family's Dr. for approx. 38 years.He was a wonderful man and very caring Doctor.Always had time to listen to his patients!! He guided my family through many ups and downs.A very caring man!He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers to your entire family. Sincerely,Lorrie Klee
Verna Collett
April 30, 2020
Barry was a wonderful person, a true gentleman and a proud family man. He was our dear friend and also our family doctor. I feel blessed to recall many wonderful memories of Barry at Vic College, the Co Op preschool, and as our family doctor. I remember his office with children's art, his drawing of happy faces on the wooden sticks to cheer up the kids, and his always calm, peaceful and caring manner that was so reassuring. We could not have had a better doctor! He was capable, kind and supportive always and he even made house calls! He got us through some tough times. He was truly a quiet hero to so many and yet he was always so humble, unassuming and brave. The world was a better place because of Barry, and he will be sadly missed. My deepest sympathy to all of the family.
Wendy Tegart
April 22, 2020
Sharon, Josie, Sheila and Craig: So sorry to hear that Barry passed away. We loved him so much... he was such a kind hearted person. Roland and I are honored to have known him and loved him. Hoping to make it his celebration of life later in the year. Big hugs to all of you. Love, Wendy, Roland & Derrick
Krishan Nagra
April 20, 2020
Mrs. Gelling, Sheila, Josie and Craig,
We wanted to express again how heartbroken we are at the news of Dr. Gelling's passing. He was such a kind and gentle man and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. You are in our thoughts,
Krishan, Rene and the Nagra family.
Rosanna Chartier
April 18, 2020
Truly a wonderful man. We moved here from Quebec when I was six years old. I was ill and my parents didn't have the money for my operation. He said he would pay for it. It was 1966. He was kind-hearted and genuine. In 1987 he assisted in delivering my 25-week old premature baby. I remember her just weighing one and a half pounds. He would always say she was the smallest baby he ever delivered. My miracle baby. I will never forget all the support and kind words he gave to me and my family. Truly a great doctor and soul.
Rosanna Chartier
Brent Frew
April 17, 2020
It was in 1977 when Dr. Gelling became our family GP. My parents had just separated, and with our Mom, my sister & I moved to Victoria. I became friends with Craig-still am-& Josie was my sister's, (Lisa's), friend. We'd go to the Lake, & spend afternoons trying to fool their cat, (Astro), into a jump in the water. Even our Dentist-Dr. Gelling's neighbour-had kids with whom we were friends, so my relationship with Dr. Gelling was unique-I felt like part of the family. When my (step)-Dad, John, passed away, Dr. Gelling came to our house, not just to sign the paperwork for the coroner, but to comfort us in the way that you, who know him, will understand. Four years later, I got a visit from the Doc' while I was in GF Strong. I'd broken my neck & as soon as I saw Dr. Gelling, I burst into tears. Once again, I was the recipient of his calming, gentle nature. He played a big part in my decision to move back to Victoria. For 15 years after my injury, Dr. Gelling would come to my house for appointments' (because I had become a C5 Quadriplegic). He did that for me until he retired & when that happened, it felt like I'd lost a close friend, or an Uncle. The enormity of this man's caring heart has influenced how I try to treat others, he was inspiring & I loved him. How many people have the same GP from 6 to 36 years old? It's with an impossibly large lump in my throat that I offer my deepest condolences to Mrs. Gelling, Sheila, Josie & my friend, Craig. Sharon, you've often been in my thoughts and my heart goes out to you. If ANYONE deserves a peaceful, beachside bungalow up in the heavens, (where he can relax), it's Barry Gelling. I lack my Mother's eloquence in my desire to express how much I appreciate all that he did, (for so many), and the depth of my admiration for the good Doctor. I have been thanking him while tapping away at this, for it's not lost on me how lucky I am to have been part of Barry's life.
Kathy Gilchrist
April 16, 2020
As a young nurse I worked with Dr Gelling at the old St Joseph Hospital which became Victoria General and then at the new hospital at Helmcken in the Labour and Delivery units He was always a gentle man and a gentleman. His had a peacefulness and calmness that he brought to all his interactions. He was a truly wonderful physician. It is an honour to have known him. Blessings to all the family. Kathy Gilchrist
April 15, 2020
Barry and I, Mary, were part of the Senior Gym program ta the Gordon head rec Centre for the past few years. His kind gentle presence will be sorely missed. rest in Peace dear soul. Thank You for your friendship
S.
April 14, 2020
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Gelling who was my family doctor for many years from wild teen to adult, and helped delivered my son into the world. He was the epitome of kindness and always treated me with caring, compassion and respect. His sage advice and positive outlook helped get me through the early years of my son's autism which were challenging to be sure. His calm demeanor and positivity made a lasting impression and I still fondly remember the many pearls of wisdom he shared over the years. My deepest condolences to his friends and family. I know his spirit lives on in each memory you carry of him.
Dr. Lloyd Mackey
April 14, 2020
I recall Barry's zest for life and his leadership skills in the Oak Bay class of '57 of which I was also a part. Have followed his medical career and community services from various distances in Canada where I have live -- now just across the water in Surrey. Condolences to Sharon and family.
Suzanne Jones
April 14, 2020
Kind, considerate and unselfish are only a few wonderful words that come to mind when I think of Dr. Gelling. Many of my most memorable childhood memories were spent with Josie and the Gelling family at their home and summer cabin. Dr. Gelling always made me, my family and friends (and the endless stream of other guests) feel welcome and comfortable. I remember Barry's kindness, his smile and happy disposition. He was a fantastic listener to everyone and his generosity was unprecedented. Having known Dr. Gelling inspires me to be a better person---I miss him. I am sending love and comfort to Sharon, Josie, Sheila and Craig (and their families). Love you all.
Colleen Turner
April 13, 2020
An amazing caring man, and a very dear lifelong family friend. We treasure our memories of you Barry!
Marilyn Rundell
April 13, 2020
A call from a friend this morning shook me to my core.
Back in 1975 I was in the emergency room at RJH when Dr. Gelling was summoned. I had not met him before that day but he became my GP immediately.
Like the unicorn, a family doctor is rare these days but back then your doctor was part of the family. He would take calls at home, come to the house when necessary, and provide routine health care with a smile.
Dr. Barry Gelling was that kind of doctor. He was more than someone who diagnosed an illness, listened to my concerns, took my temperature, performed my surgeries, walked me through my pregnancies and delivered my baby girls. Barry was a friend.
This very special man was someone who I admired, respected and, more important, trusted completely.
When Doc retired I was devastated but wished him well and cried.
Today I found out that he passed on and I cried again.
My sincere wish is that Barry enjoyed his retirement; spending time with his wife Sharon (whom I only met once), his children, grandchildren, family, and friends; doing things that made him smile and enjoying a life well lived.
There is not a doubt in my mind that he will be missed by all who had the pleasure to know Dr. Barry Gelling.
Susan
April 13, 2020
My condolences to the Gelling family. I remember Dr. Gelling as a kind man with infinite patience for the shenanigans virtually next door at the Bradley house in the mid 80s. My regards too in particular to Mrs. Gelling, who was always so kind to all the kids.
April 13, 2020
My condolences to Dr. Gelling's family. I started seeing Dr. Gelling when I was 17 till I turned 53, the year I moved away, I think Dr. Gelling retired about the same time. I was always grateful to have him as my doctor. He saw me through a lot. Was so wonderful with my children. And so kind to everyone. He was an extreme strength and support for me during some very trying times. He saved my husband from dying when on his first appointment, Dr. Gelling discovered Kim had cancer in his throat. He delivered my beautiful baby girl and as the baby was placed on me he happily said "you have your baby girl" After I moved it was so difficult to be happy with the doctor I had, as I always compared him to Dr. Gelling. And no one could match him. RIP Dr. Gelling. You were loved.
April 13, 2020
Sharon and family;
My sincerest condolences on your loss.
David Titterton,
Cobble Hill, B.C.
Carol Cullimore
April 13, 2020
My thoughts are with you and your family Sharon. Barry was a great guy!!!
Sheila Henry
April 12, 2020
We mourn the passing of a truly unique and exemplary human being, the best family doctor ever, caring dependable indispensable. We were so lucky to have had him in our lives. My children were not only his patients as was I,but also played with your children as well. Thank you, Sharon, for sharing him so unselfishly.bless you. Sheila, Rick Henry and Lisa and Brent Frew
Murray Ramsbottom
April 12, 2020
Jacqui and I extend our sincere sympathies to the Gelling family. We did not know Barry, other than through his brother Bill in Ottawa, a long time RCAF friend and colleague. Barry was obviously a fine gentleman, a caring family man,a dedicated physician and an ardent supporter of his community. He will be greatly missed without question.
Murray Ramsbottom, Victoria
Jodi Lang (Hodgkinson)
April 12, 2020
He was our family physician from the time I was born until he retired. He also delivered my daughter. He was a lovely gentle man. Back in the day when physicians did house calls, as I was one of four children, we saw him in our home quite often. When we see him in the office, as we'd wait in the exam room, he would always knock on the door, enter, close the door, then lean against it with his arms crossed and the first thing he would ask is how are you? How's the family? He'd ask about work and vacations. Then the matter at hand. He'd always listen. Professional. Kind. Decent. He was a gentleman. I have thought of him often in the last 20 years. I hope he knew how much he was loved and admired.
Bob and Holly Mair
April 11, 2020
We are sorry to hear of your loss. I'm sure your dad will be missed by many. He was always good to us when we were younger.
Katelyn Brown
April 11, 2020
I was lucky enough to be one of those 1000's of babies that Dr. Gelling delivered (still have the picture of him holding me) As a child we would never be afraid to go see the doctor. In fact if we knew we were going we would draw him a picture, which he always had hanging in the exam rooms for years to come. His amazing popsicle stick drawings and such a genuine smile always made as feel better. He was my doctor until he retired when I was a teen. I often say that we were spoiled having him as our family doctor, as no other doctor ever lived up to the kind heart that Dr.Gelling had.
Sending my love and hugs to his family.
Rest in paradise Dr. Gelling.
With love
Katelyn Brown (Forrest)
Amanda Mariscak
April 11, 2020
Dear Sharon and fanily,
I'm so very saddened to hear of Dr. Gelling's passing. He was my very first boss! He was such a kind and caring man and taught me so much. I always looked forward to my shifts at the clinic. May he rest in peace now. My condolences, Amanda Mariscak (nee Kinghorn)
April 11, 2020
Barry was our family doctor for over 20 years and the best GP we have ever had. Our deepest sympathies to the family on this sad news. With kindest regards, Denise, Ken and Jason Cameron
Keith Laidler
April 11, 2020
Barry was a definitive benefit to this planet....A person I always looked up to, as well, Sharon....My heartfelt best regards to his family.
Donn Collett
April 11, 2020
So sorry to hear of Barry's passing. May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. He was an amazing person and he played such an important role in our family!!!Taking care of all of our health for so long. I am glad that we got to visit at my dad's memorial in the fall and get caught up with you both...... His loving care for all of us and his pride and delight in his family were just a few of his admirable qualities....Take care of each other.....and know he will be greatly missed.
Trish Davis
April 11, 2020
Sharon and family, My deepest condolences.He was an amazing man and DR. He was a big part of my family for years. I had the privilege of dancing with him at my wedding.We will miss you. Fly High
Bob Das
April 11, 2020
Helen & I share our deepest sympathies with Sharon and the family. We will remember Barry as a kind , compassionate and caring person. May he rest in peace.
Love, Helen & Bob Das
Janis Payne
April 11, 2020
Dear Sharon and family,
John and I were so sorry to hear of dear Barry's passing. He was a truly gentle, compassionate, good man. We will always remember him with great affection and respect.
It was an honour for me to work with him at Saanich Medical and I will never forget his obvious love and pride in his family and his unfailing care, kindness and affection towards his patients and all of us who were fortunate enough to know him. The world needs more Dr Gellings!
Our thoughts, love and sympathies are with you at this time.
Respectfully,
Janis and John Payne and family
Donna Wilson
April 11, 2020
Sharon and Family, I am so very sorry to learn of this great loss. Barry was such an inspiration to so many, including myself. Working with him at the Dr's office I saw first hand his kindness and compassion to everyone. My thoughts and love go out to each of you. Big hugs.
Agnes Knowles
April 11, 2020
I met Dr. Gelling in the early 70s when he was the most caring doctor to an ill friend. During the 80s he delivered all three of my children and was the voice of knowledge and calm through all the childhood calamities.
My very best wishes to his family, thank you for sharing him with us all for so many years. What a legacy he leaves.
Robert Curran
April 11, 2020
God rest your soul, you looked after my family for many years, which I appreciate so very much... Rest In Peace my friend, you were loved by all...
Carol Urquhart (nee Robinson)
April 11, 2020
What a sad morning for me, to read of the passing of Dr. Gelling. He was one of a kind. . .the most caring and wonderful doctor that anyone could ask for. He delivered our children, Brian and Julie, and was not only our family doctor but my parents' (Don and Avis Robinson) as well. He cared for me during some of my hardest moments in life, but also shared in some of our happiest. My deepest condolences to the family during this sad time.
judy bingham
April 11, 2020
Dear Sharon and family,
So many fond memories of Barry. He was so well liked by all. Hugs, Judy and George
David Wingate
April 11, 2020
Barry was a wonderful doctor to our whole family...help with the delivery of our son who is 35 now. Very fine man!
Dave Wingate & Family
April 11, 2020
Sharon and family.
We were so sorry to hear from the Rella family of Barry's passing. He was a wonderful friend and doctor to our family for many years and our son is one of the babies he delivered. We will remember our time with the both of you at your dinner table and the lake.
Condolences, Pam and Guy Gaudio, Victoria
Carol Pickup
April 11, 2020
A wonderful,caring special man!!Sending lots of love and hugs to Sharon his wife and soulmate. He is in the healing Light of Spirit and all is well with him.
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