Arthur Leslie Francis Barley

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of 'Les' Barley, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He is survived by his loving wife, Daphne, his son Michael (Josie), his daughter Jacqueline, seven grandchildren and three nieces who reside in England. In addition, there are ten great grandchildren, Les's eyes always lit up when he saw them.

Les celebrated his 103rd birthday in 2014, and was often asked about his longevity. His usual reply referred to dancing, to exercise in general.

He brought his family to Canada in 1948, arriving in Nanaimo on July 1st. He immediately went into practice as an Architect and came to be known for his design abilities. His legacy includes a large number of schools and public buildings throughout Nanaimo and the surrounding districts, including the Nanaimo Centennial Museum on the downtown waterfront.

He was an ardent dancer, swimmer, figure skater, designer and builder. He was always technologically inclined, and invented assorted gadgets related to drafting. He once built a colour television set from a kit. He enjoyed photography, music, art, theater, fishing, and many other activities.

Les was pre-deceased by his first wife Anne, with whom he ran the Nanaimo Figure Skating Club for many years.

He will be missed and remembered by the countless people whose lives he touched, particularly those who so much enjoyed his dance instruction. Through the many years, he taught young and old alike, and was recently heard to comment that he was teaching 'seniors' to dance who were at least thirty years younger than himself!

In recent years Les and Daphne travelled together extensively and have enjoyed seeing much more of the world. In his 'century' he has witnessed the evolution of flight, radio, television, space exploration, computers and the internet; in short, the entire spectrum of contemporary technology which he embraced with a passion.

His positive attitude and energy gave him an extraordinary outlook on life. He was a classic example of a 'well rounded gentleman' and his influence on his family and friends was profound and far-reaching as was his enthusiasm for life.

We will always love you, Dad, and will celebrate your amazingly long life with the fondest of memories.

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His family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses on the 6th floor of the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital for all the wonderful care and help they gave in making his last days comfortable.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital or a charity of your choice.