With heavy hearts, we celebrate the remarkable life of Barry Petman, who peacefully passed away on April 3, 2025, at Fairvern Nursing Home Born in Toronto on August 28, 1932, Barry lived a life filled with adventure, love, and family. He spent his early years in Toronto where he was often creating new opportunities for him and his buddies. A leader in riding the rails, leaping from car to car, or heading up organized team sports and hitting up local businesses to sponsor the teams, Barry was all about keeping his friends close and full of adventure. Although university was an option, being outside was much more enticing for Barry and so he decided Forest Ranger School at the Frost Centre in Haliburton seemed like a much better option. This sparked a passion for the outdoors that would define much of his life. One thing led to another and Barry joined the Ministry of Natural Resources, becoming a Forest FireFighter in Northern Ontario, serving areas such as Geraldton, Longlac, Dryden and White River. He was instrumental in building fire watch towers to allow viewing across the acres and acres of Northern Ontario, some of which still stand today. It was in this remote location that he met Bunty, a spitfire of a nurse. Despite his shy nature, with a little help from friends, he won her heart, and they soon began a life together. Family was at the center of Barry’s world. He and Bunty were blessed with four children: Jane (Bob) Wolfe, David (Evelyn), Sara (Bob) Doiron, Inga (Steve) Craig and daughter in law Kelly Petman. He was a devoted “Bupa” to Kassandra, Giselle, Oliver, Hanna, Kevin, Taylor, Thomas, and Riley, creating cherished memories with each of them. He became a Great Grandpa to 7 grandchildren who he loved to watch playing. From places in the north like Geraldton to Powassan to Huntsville, Barry and his family eventually settled at Riverlea, where he could fully embrace his love for the outdoors. Living on the water, he enjoyed greeting those passing by on the river with a smile and a wave, and always welcomed guests into his home. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, often in his “Pout House,” where they worked on a multitude of woodworking projects together. Barry was an avid camper and fisherman, continuing to join family camping trips until he was 90! He loved swimming in the lake, cycling, canoeing, and even at 90 threatened to dive off the dock, just like he always had. He shared his passion for the outdoors with his children, taking them snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, always ensuring there was a roaring campfire to cook hotdogs or other special treats. When the kids and their friends were heading out for a weekend camping trip, they made sure to invite dad who was really just part of the gang. He brought his own tent, which was strategically placed at a distance so as not to hear his melodious snoring but close enough to ensure that returning him to his tent after his world famous log role, was not an insurmountable task. Barry loved to volunteer at schools, supporting his children and grandchildren, leading cross-country skiing groups, teaching students how to play badminton and reading in classrooms. Known for his patience, Barry was always willing to help a child or staff member, answering any and all questions with kindness. The family would like to take this opportunity to thank Country Moments who cared for dad as one of their own. Your kindness and dedication felt like a true extension of our family. Your exceptional care, gentle support, and unwavering patience made a significant difference in dad's life during his time there. Thank you for treating him with such respect and warmth. We will always remember your dedication. To the staff of Fairvern Nursing Home, a thank you for the extended care that you provided for dad during his final months. We are incredibly grateful for the loving care you provided to dad. Your kindness meant the world to him and to us. Barry’s life was a testament to his love for family, his passion for the outdoors, his warm, charming smile and his gentle giving spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Please join us in celebrating Barry’s incredible life at Family Place Restaurant on Wednesday August 27, 2025 for some of dads favorites - cookies and squares from 1 to 3 pm