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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
MONTGOMERY, George Barry - On the evening of May 12, 2021, the Habs lost their number one fan. A proud naval aviator, Barry had a rewarding and interesting military career. After leaving College Militaire St. Jean, he received his flight training In Pensacola, Fla., and Kingsville, Tex., with the USN. Starting as a Tracker pilot flying from HMCS BONAVENTURE, he made his new home in Dartmouth, with wife Betty, in 1958. He converted to Sea King helicopters in 1965 with HS-50 Squadron. Staff College then took him and his family to Toronto in 1969 for one year. Returning to Dartmouth, his flying career culminated with his appointment as First Commanding Officer for the newly formed HS-443 Squadron in 1974. He then moved his family to Washington, D.C., in 1976 where he represented Canadian Maritime Aviation in the US. His last posting brought Barry and his family back to Nova Scotia where he ended his career at the Maritime Warfare School as Deputy Commandant in 1979. After a very short stint in the civilian world, working as a consultant for Canadair, Barry decided it was time for an early retirement in 1990 so he could focus on his passion for golf. A long-time member of Brightwood Golf and Country Club in Dartmouth, he was also now able to spend his winters at his second home in Lake Wales, Fla. Barry also loved his “toys” which included over 50 cars, motorcycles, his cabin cruiser on Chesapeake Bay in Virginia, and travel trailers. It was the family RV-ing across North America that led them to Florida, where Barry and Betty were “pioneers” of Saddlebag Lake Resort. They spent over 30 winters there with many special friends. His screen room in Florida was his comfort zone, where martinis and barbeques were enjoyed. Barry also appreciated a variety of music genres which led to his organizing an annual Dixieland concert at Saddlebag that became a tradition. Over the years he explored many countries around the world, both with the navy and for pleasure, with Betty and his children. Barry enjoyed debate and solving the world’s problems with close friends and family into the wee hours. He loved good stories and shared many: he was a master of wit and repartee. His positive attitude and humour attracted many friends to join in on his conversation. Barry was born in N-D-G Montreal in 1935 to the late William Paton and Laura Evelyn (Moynan) Montgomery and was predeceased by his sisters, Norma, Catherine, and Janet. He is survived by his loving family which includes his wife of 62 years, Betty (Walsh) Montgomery; daughters, Carolyn Broderick (Paul), Evelyn Bazos (Brian Crawford); son, Murray Montgomery (Yim Lee); grandchildren, Jamie Bazos, Chris Bazos, Greg Bazos, Chelsea Broderick, Lydia Broderick; step grandchildren, Michael, Danielle, Stephen Crawford, “Sisty” Audrey and favourite granddog, Monty. Please don’t mourn his death, but instead, celebrate his life by hoisting a glass at 5 p.m. to wish him a Bon Voyage! Special thanks to the wonderful home care workers and palliative care team at the QEII. As well, Barry spent his last few days in Hospice Halifax, where he received the kindest care possible. A private cremation has taken place. Barry was a generous contributor to charities and would appreciate your considering a donation to Hospice Halifax or any other charity of your choice. (Saltwire Network 15 May 2021)
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