Barry L. Siegal

Barry L. Siegal, 79, of West Hartford, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Dec. 24, at St. Francis Hospital after a brief illness. He is survived by his beloved wife of over 50 years Judith "JB" (Beck) Siegal. A life-long native of West Hartford, he was the son of the late Ruth and Edward Siegal. A graduate of Conard High School and Bryant College, Barry devoted over 50 years of his life and career as a principal in his family's Hartford-based business, EDART Truck Leasing. Philanthropy and giving were a major part of Barry's life and legacy. He was passionate about cancer research and treatment, fundraising for the Jimmy Fund which supports the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. For over 40 years, whether riding in the Pan-Mass Challenge, or in his later years solely fundraising, Barry personally raised $1 million. He served as a board member and fundraiser for Emanuel Synagogue, Mt. Sinai Hospital, Hartford Jewish Federation, Mandell JCC, Hebrew Home and Hospital, and Jewish Family Services. Barry was a long-time blood donor to the Red Cross, donating an astounding 21-gallons. An avid fan of the New York Yankees and an athlete himself, Barry was a college baseball player. He ran Boston and New York Marathons, competed in several triathlons, and took pride in playing on semi-pro, fast-pitch softball teams in the Hartford area including Conn's Kings, Dovelettes and Beacon Cafe. He was inducted into the Greater Hartford Jewish Athletes Hall of Fame. He is also survived by his daughter Heidi Siegal Kogon (Stephen); son Jed Siegal (Rachel); grandsons Hayden, Camden, Tyler, and Henry; his brother Mark Siegal (Ronna); sister Judie Levy (Coleman); and sister-in-law Lois Siegal. He is predeceased by his son Erik Siegal and brother Howard Siegal. Barry also leaves behind dear friends, who were like family, and cared and supported him over the last few years. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 27, at 10:30 am, in the Emanuel Synagogue Sanctuary (160 Mohegan Drive, West Hartford) with Hazzan Daniella Risman officiating, with interment following at the Emanuel Synagogue Cemetery (1361 Berlin Turnpike, Wethersfield). The family will receive family and friends immediately following interment back at Emanuel. The Sanctuary service will be live streamed through the Emanuel website. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Funeral arrangements provided by Hebrew Funeral Association, West Hartford.