Barry Hooke

It is with a great deal of sadness we announce Barry’s sudden passing on Thursday, September 19, 2019 in a tragic vehicle accident at the age of 68.

Barry was born January 7, 1951 in Brandon, Manitoba to George and Alice Hooke (nee Bender). In his youth, Barry overcame polio to become a gifted athlete who excelled at baseball/fastball, curling and golf. Always competitive, he relished his playing days and the teammates/friends he competed with and against. After a wonderful high school experience filled with an abundance of good cheer, Barry commenced an arduous management-training program on the family farm.  A disagreement with upper management resulted in an amicable departure and he completed his Education program at Brandon University before embarking on a teaching career. True to his farming background, Barry was always eager to seek greener pastures and landed positions in pharmaceutical companies before health concerns forced his early retirement. Relegated to a life of leisure, he persevered, continually honing his unique swing as well as serving on the Board of Golf Manitoba for the last ten years where he actively promoted rural golf. Despite a reputation for breaking the rules in his youth, it is ironic that Barry enthusiastically embraced the role as a Rules official in countless Golf Manitoba events and was an expert in the more arcane infractions. Barry was an active player in sanctioned tournaments and he cherished the camaraderie of his Grey Owl, Portage, Roblin and Tamarack playing partners. Barry’s personality was reflected in his demeanor, fiercely competitive but calm, composed and easy-going, a sheer joy with whom to share a round and a true original that we will lovingly remember.

Barry will be greatly missed by his one true love of over twenty-five years, Kathy Keast, his children Kayla (Chris Restrick) and Christopher (Breann); his three granddaughters Summer, Peyton, and Emily; his siblings Lyn Martin, Georgia Weaver, Ken (Kim) and Kevin (Laurie); Kathy’s siblings D’Arcy (Eileen) and Gordie; as well as his nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life (casual attire please) will be held Saturday, October 5, 2019 from 2:30 to 4:30 (tribute at 3:15) at the Victoria Inn, 3550 Victoria Ave, Brandon, MB.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Barry may be directed to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, Golf Manitoba Scholarship Fund Inc. or to a charity of your choice.

A tree will be planted and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com 204-857-4021