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Barry Dearing, son, husband, father, friend, coach, basketball official, and dedicated educator passed away January 16th, 2014 in the company of family and friends, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Barry was born in 1956, to a family with a long history in the Shuswap. Barry himself spent only four years of his life away from Salmon Arm – to attend university and to teach for one year in Australia.

From an early age, Barry was an avid participant in many sports including hockey, baseball, volleyball, basketball, tennis, and golf. After graduating from high school in 1974, Barry attended the University of Victoria to obtain his Bachelor of Education degree, and later, a Master of Education degree. He spent his entire career in the Shuswap as a much-loved teacher and administrator and had recently retired, hoping to explore the golf courses of the world. Instead, he battled cancer with the determination, positive attitude, and humour that he was known for.

Barry was also a highly regarded basketball official and served as president of the local referee’s association as well as on the executive for the BCBOA. He was also on the executive for the Shuswap Children’s Association and the Salmon Arm Golf Club.

Barry is survived by his wife Nadina, son Kyle, mother Flo, brother Terry, niece Tanya (Jason), and nephew Drew. His father, Lorne, predeceased him in May 2013.

A celebration of life was held for Barry on January 26th at South Broadview Elementary School, with Jack Bowers officiating. Tributes were given by son Kyle, close friend Carl Cooper, former student Hugh Bennett, local basketball referee Ken Jamieson, and BCBOA President Tim Heide. Music was provided by Jim Johnston (piano), Jim Howie (trumpet), the Shuswap Brass Quartet, Mary Landers and guest singers, and special guest Greg Sczebel.

In memory of Barry, donations can be made to the Barry Dearing Family Foundation (c/o the Shuswap Community Foundation), which is being established to provide funding to disadvantaged elementary-aged youth who could benefit from financial support in athletic or artistic endeavours.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the Vernon Cancer Clinic, the 4th floor staff at Shuswap Lake General Hospital, Bowers Funeral Home, and the multitude of family, friends, colleagues, and students who rallied to support Barry and surround him with an abundance of love and dignity in his last months of life.

Online condolences may be sent through Barry’s obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com



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