July 10, 1938 – May 23, 2025   

It is with profound sadness that we share that our dad, Tom, passed away suddenly on Friday, May 23, 2025, in Kamloops, B.C. After a lovely supper full of laughter and stories, with his kids and a family friend, dad succumbed to a heart attack on our walk back to the hotel. 

Dad came from a humble and loving beginning in Vernon, B.C. From an early age he regarded life as an adventure to experience. Among his greatest treasures were his friends, many of whom he’s had for much of his life. His love for them and theirs for him was obvious. 

After spending time in various parts of the province as a young working professional, dad and mum settled in Williams Lake more than 50 years ago. Here dad experienced so many successes and held many roles – volunteer fireman, entrepreneur, business owner, city councillor. He was active in his community serving on several boards including a stint as the President of the Williams Lake Stampede committee. 

One of his most notable business enterprises was the Comer Station Pub where, through his generosity of spirit and kindness, he created a second home for many, including us. 

Dad had several great loves in his life. His love life formally began when he married our mum, Jennifer, in 1963 with whom he had many happy years. His second wife Kathy was a force to be reckoned with, and they had many adventures together. Finally, there is Barb Christiansen, his current partner – a lovely, kind-hearted woman who we all love. 

Dad was a generous and kind man, a wonderful human being. His kindness, generosity and amazing sense of humour saw us through many hard times and more importantly, helped us to fully enjoy the good times of which there were many. Dad’s laughter and fervor for life was contagious, and we will carry on as he would want – loving the lives we have while celebrating the person he was. 

Dad leaves behind his kids Alison (Kevin) and Shane (Jim), his grandchildren (Amanda and Ethan), his partner Barb and a plethora of good friends and extended family members. Dad was predeceased by his parents, his siblings, and his grandson Devon. 

Dad’s life deserves to be celebrated, and to that end there will be a celebration of life planned in the near future. We will keep you posted. 

Dad made the world a better place and we will miss him terribly. 

You may offer a message of condolence at Schoening Funeral Service for the Barr family.

• Date : 2025-05-23
• Location : Kamloops