Obituary of Wm. Barrie Gilchrist

Wm. Barrie Gilchrist passed away May 28, 2016 at the Louise Jensen Centre in Camrose, Alberta after suffering for some time with Parkinson's disease. He was born September 16, 1927 in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan to Mable Annie "Scottie" (Scott) and Chester Hall "Chay" Gilchrist. One of the last of a generation who grew up on the Gilchrist Brothers Ranch in southeastern Alberta, he loved the cowboy life and wrote about his memories in a family published booklet, "Growing Up Wild in the Forgotten Corner." He was first married in 1948 to Opal Gaff, with whom he had three children, but subsequently divorced in 1963. In 1968, he married Dorothy Mae (Anderson/Bishop) Fuhrer and adopted her son, Douglas M. Fuhre. After his ranching days, he co-operated the Manyberries Hotel before working in sales. He met Dorothy in Whitecourt after he had begun his career in the oilfield driving a cat to build access roads. They lived in the bush of Virginia Hills for more than 20 years. He continued to work in the oilfield as a battery operator until about 2003; residing in Whitecourt, Provost, Camrose and, finally, Bawlf where Dorothy passed away. His health required him to move to Providence Place in Daysland where his neighbour, Ethel Candlish, became a new love in his life. Ethel provided gentle care until Barrie's deteriorating health forced his 2012 move to Sunrise Village in Camrose then, in November 2015, to the Louise Jensen Centre. Barrie enjoyed traveling, spending time with family and friends and reminiscing with his Gilchrist cousins. He is survived by his children Rick (Carmen) Weiss, Connie (Herb) Hemsing and Doug Gilchrist; six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren; siblings Bob Gilchrist and Bev O'Riordan; several nieces and nephews and loving friend, Ethel Candlish. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Dorothy (2008), his parents' Chay (1976) and Scotty (1986) his brother Jack (1983) and a son, Todd Weiss (2008). The family is grateful to the staff at Sunrise Village and Louise Jensen Centre for their kindness and care of Barrie over the years; and, more recently, to Diane Neff who gave Barrie some extra care and attention this year. A memorial service was held on Wednesday, June 22, 2016 at 1 p.m. from the Masonic Hall in Camrose. Memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to Parkinson Alberta or to the charity of one's choice.