Barry Cox, 87, of 960 First St. E., Fort Frances, Ont., passed away peacefully Monday, March 30, 2009 at La Verendrye General Hospital in Fort Frances.
He was born Aug. 27, 1921 in Emo, Ont. to the late Walter and Edna Cox. Barry moved to Fort Frances with his family when he was very young.
In his earlier years, Barry played in the town marching band. He also played saxophone with many other fellow musicians in the “Little Big Bands,” providing everyone the enjoyment to dance the night away.
His talent for music also provided him the opportunity to sing for the first remote control broadcast at the CKFI inaugriation.
On Oct. 7, 1944, he was united in marriage to the former Betty Wees.
Barry worked for the post office in Fort Frances, and later as a salesman for Fort Frances car dealerships for a period of time. He later returned to the post office and continued his career until his retirement in 1986.
Barry was a member of the Knox United Church, and also visited parishioners at their homes when they were not able to attend church. When not visiting people at their homes, you usually would find him visiting friends at Rainycrest.
Barry had a spirit and great compassion for people, and always had stories and jokes to tell you to brighten your day.
He also volunteered his time for the hospital auxiliary, and for any many functions or benefits in the community.
He loved his family, and his grandchildren were very dear to his heart. Barry truly will be missed by his family and all who knew him throughout his lifetime, and he will be remembered as a kind, gentle man.
He was predeceased by his one brother, Alf Cox.
Barry is survived by wife, Betty Cox, of Fort Frances, Ont.; son, Michael Cox and wife, Ann Germani, of Brandon, Man.; daughter, Susan and husband, Jim Nutt, of Lakeville, Mn.; five grandchildren, Shaughn Hotham-Cox and wife, Christa, Tannys and husband, Shaun Moffatt, Erin Cox, Jeremey Nutt, and Meghan and husband, Justin Trollinger; and one great-granddaughter, Paisley Hotham-Cox.
Cremation took place at Rainy River Cremation Services in International Falls, Mn.
A memorial service to celebrate Barry’s life will be held Friday, April 3, 2009 at 2 p.m. at the Knox United Church in Fort Frances, with Rev. Barbara Miller officiating.
Should family and friends so desire, in memoriam donations may be made to either Knox United Church, 340 Church St., Fort Frances, Ont., P9A 1E1 or the Alzheimers Society of Kenora/Rainy River District, P.O. Box 837, Kenora, Ont., P9N 4B5, or c/o Green Funeral Home, P.O. Box 427, Fort Frances, Ont., P9A 3M8.
Online condolences may be made offered at www.mem.com