We Remember

MARTIN, R. Barry

October 24, 1943 — October 25, 2026

Born on October 24, 1943, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Richard Barry Martin passed away on October 25, 2026, in Kelowna, British Columbia, at the age of 83.

Barry was raised in Winnipeg, the son of Harry and Alice (née Lefley) Martin, and he called that city home until he was 31. A teacher by calling, he began his career there before moving his family to Calgary, AB, where he carried on in the classroom and as a guidance counsellor. He was a people person in the truest sense, a good listener who made every student feel heard. After a long and rewarding career, he retired to Kelowna.

Barry was a gentle man, kind and considerate, with a quick sense of humour and an infectious smile. He loved sports and spent many happy seasons coaching volleyball and basketball. He enjoyed singing, dancing, and reading, and he never tired of watching programs about history and nature. His faith was important to him, and he was actively involved with his church.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Carol; children, Lisa (Paul) Knechtel and Jim Martin; grandchildren, Alice Knechtel (Jace), Abi Martin (Danny), Emma Martin, Seth Martin, and Jake Martin; brother, Ron Martin; and many nieces and nephews.

Although no formal service will take place immediately, a memorial service will take place next June. Those who wish may make a donation to the Parkinson Society of British Columbia.

 

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

Share with Others:

Share on Facebook
Share Via Email

Parkinson Society of British Columbia Link: parkinson.bc.ca

 


 


Condolences

Leave a Condolence Message for the Family


» To share your condolence on this page please fill out the requested fields.
» If you have a photo to share, please do so as families appreciate it. To share a photo (please note, just one photo per condolence please), click the 'Choose File' button and select a photo from your computer.
» Once you are done, click the 'Share' button.
» Your email is never published or shared. Your name and email are both required.

NOTE: all messages will go through an administrative process before being posted.

© Springfield Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
All obituary notices, photographs, tributes, and other content published on this website are protected by applicable copyright laws. Unauthorized copying, automated scraping, reproduction, distribution, or republication of this content, in whole or in part, by third-party websites, obituary aggregators, or other commercial entities is strictly prohibited without prior written permission from Springfield Funeral Home or the applicable copyright holder.