John E. Barry Jr.

We mourn the loss of John "Jack" Barry, who passed on May 27, 2025 in Bloomingdale, Illinois surrounded by his family. Born on January 9, 1943, in Corning, New York, Jack, as he was better known, was a man of an intelligent and soft-spoken nature, often brightening the world around him with his kind heartedness and wisdom. The cornerstone of Jack's life could be found in his often-echoed advice, "try to have some fun," and in his pragmatic nature that many came to know and love.

Jack is survived by his beloved wife of 42 year, Jacqueline (nee Kent), and his five children; Lisa (Charles), John, Katherine Barry Fisher, Caitlin, and Evan. Along with his grandchildren; Jacob Barry, Emma Barry, and Joshua Fisher and his brother, Thomas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Virginia Skaden Barry and John Edward Barry; and his sister, Bonnie Barry Hanna. He also had many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. His legacy, a testament to the sacrifices a man makes for his family, lives through them.

Due to his strong work ethic, Jack's accomplishments were many. Jack began as a proud Eagle Scout in his youth and later a member of, and eventually the esteemed captain of, the Notre Dame wrestling team from 1960 to 1964. In addition to being a leader, Jack remained a strong student who studied hard; ultimately going on to earn a sought-after Master’s degree.

Jack was a dedicated fan of his alma mater, Notre Dame, and his deep love for the university was evident to those around him. Jack wrestled for ND, earning him a membership of the acclaimed Monogram Club, comprised of student-athlete alumni. The club allowed Jack annual access to his beloved football games and he was always joined by friends and family, most of whom similarly adopted his infectious passion for the team. After Jack's college wrestling career, he could still be found frequenting college wrestling meets to watch the athletes compete.

Jack started his career in accounting and eventually found his way to the Human Resources profession. He held many positions in different companies through his working career, but most notably a successful and long tenure in compensation at Motorola, where he worked his way up the corporate ladder eventually achieving a director position within his department, a testament to his hard work.

He loved spending his free time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who remember fondly their trips to Legoland, Six Flags, and Notre Dame games, along with the occasional list of chores. Jack's active lifestyle didn't end after college. He was an active member of his YMCA and enjoyed exercising, swimming, or playing racquetball. In the evenings and weekends, he found solace in watching Chicago Sports, college athletics, or movies with his wife, Jackie. He was most at peace when on a dock or boat, rod and reel in hand with a loved one.

After college wrestling, his passion turned towards racquet sports like tennis and racquetball. Jack was a strong competitor in both, competing in matches all the while maintaining his working career and earning many accolades along the way. He proudly refereed racquetball tournaments at the YMCA when he could not compete; evidence to his unwavering sportsmanship. Even in retirement, Jack did not slow down. He started his own vending machine business to continue contributing to the household and to keep from sitting still. Jack's dedication to whatever he put his mind to will not be forgotten, but rather carried on in his children and those that knew him well.

Despite his prolific life, many of those closest to him still wonder, in jest, when to expect the hair on their chests that was promised from following his directives.

Jack had a long battle with Parkinson's disease since his diagnosis in 2013. While he would not want to be remembered for his Parkinson's, his family thinks he has a story worth sharing because of the less common aspects of his journey. He also suffered from Parkinson's dementia, psychosis, and hallucinations all of which affected him and his family deeply in the later years of his life. You can imagine that as a prolific athlete and lifelong learner, it was extremely difficult for Jack to accept the limitations the disease was thrusting upon his mind, body, and spirit on a daily basis. If there is any way we can support other families in this situation, we'd like to try. Which is why we're asking that in lieu of flowers, donations be directed to The Parkinson's Foundation. Contributions may be made at the following URL: Contribute to The Parkinson's Foundation in memory of Jack | Ever Loved

Services will be at the convenience of the family.

He will be sorely missed but his spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. Rest in peace, Jack.