Obituary of Barry Bishop
Bishop: Barry John "Bear" -
Peacefully at his home, Barry passed away with his beloved cat OJ by his side, on April 30, 2023 at the age of 64.
Born December 25, 1958, Barry was a great Christmas present to the late Murray (1998) and Mary (1999) (Woods) Bishop. Also predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, the late Wendy (2019) and Raymond Jackson (2019).
Survived by son, Derrick Bishop, grandson Hayden Garton and granddaughter Hailey Garton and siblings Shelley Bishop, Deb Bellamy, Pat and Gary Balmer, Eugene and JoAnn Bishop, and many nieces and nephews.
Barry started his school years at Palmyra, SS #2 Orford, continued at Orford Township Central School and finished his schooling at Blenheim District High School. He began his 47 year trucking career shortly there after. Better known as the "Popcorn Kid" during these days.
Health issues created a life change where he fully enjoyed his new passion of shuttling passengers and vehicles with various car dealerships in the Chatham-Kent Area.
The railroad clubs became a very important part of his last five years, being involved with the Chatham Model Railroad Club and Strathroy Model Railroad Engineers.
Per Bear's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will take place at Palmyra School, 14303 Talbot Trail, Highway 3 on July 8th, 2023 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. Feel free to bring lawn chairs for the event.
Donations made in memory of Barry to the Chatham Model Railroad Club and Strathroy Model Railroad Engineers would be appreciated by the family. Donations may be made by cash or Cheque through the Funeral Home.
Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com
McKinlay Funeral Home
76 Main Street East, Ridgetown
519-674-3141
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Ridgetown: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-397
Blenheim: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-41
Chatham: Class 1 Funeral Establishment FE-174
Nathan McKinlay is in charge of day-to-day operations in Chatham.
Jeff Mardling is in charge of day-to-day operations in Blenheim & Ridgetown.
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