Barry Aaron Widenmaier
Barry Aaron Widenmaier of Moose Jaw, SK, passed away on Friday, January 3, 2024, at 74 years of age.
Barry, or Bubba, as he was affectionately known, was born in Bienfait, Saskatchewan. All his schooling took place in Moose Jaw which has been his home ever since.
Barry, at the age of 13 won a trip to see Parliament in Ottawa and it ignited a passion for political involvement and debate that grew stronger each year and defined his life, first as a Young New Democrat and continuing as an adult. He worked and volunteered for the party and politics in general most of his life. His leadership is evident in letters to the newspaper and appearance at public meetings representing his favourite causes and people.
He admired the ‘working class’ in the struggle for economic freedom, dignity and due respect. He loved singing union songs with a fervour and musical ability which was never seen nor heard before by his family. He was a fierce debater, but the family never saw him bully or disrespect opponents or friends. His power was based on the filing cabinets full of clippings he gathered to support his ideas.
When Barry was still in high school, he was recruited by mom to be her home assistant while she trained to be a hairdresser and then open a hairdressing shop. He looked after very young Ricky and Wendy as well as did the housework and made meals for several years as a teen – a heavy load without complaint. It surely cut into his teenage years. Mom acknowledged his valued help in her Will many years later.
He made careers as a printer, bookkeeper and tax preparer. In retirement he worked as a night caretaker / janitor. He loved being a ‘working man’.
After a few misadventures owning and learning to drive, Barry never owned or drove a car for the rest of his life. He walked everywhere!
His personality was formed by introversion and anxiety, as well as a stubborn streak. That combination of character traits worked against him in his life and especially in his final weeks.
His walking kept him fit, but his lifestyle wore him down. He was diagnosed with an advanced cancer recently and was treated as far as possible. Though not able to look after himself he insisted on being discharged so he could die at home.
He was a family favourite, but none of us really understood his needs or could help him. He was always welcome in our lives, and he knew it.
Barry was predeceased by his parents, Albert and Mona Widenmaier, brothers, Sharle Widenmaier and Donny Widenmaier, niece Ursula Widenmaier and nephew Richard Widenmaier.
Left to mourn are his brothers Dennis (who was with him through the whole time and personally able to attend to his dying needs), Lloyd and Ricky, as well as his sister, Wendy, and their spouses along with many nephews and nieces.
Barry had many long-term friends who accepted him for who he was.
On behalf of Barry, the family sincerely thanks all the neighbours and strangers who came to assist in his final distressing days under difficult physical conditions. He quietly raised a hand in thanks, but few were able to see.
Thank you to Homecare, Meals on Wheels, Emergency Services, Police, Ambulance and Fire Departments. Also, Hospital staff in Regina and Moose Jaw who were so kind and professional and were reluctant for Barry to be discharged.
Sad to see you leave, brother, but you’ll always be alive, respected and loved in our memories.
A Private Family Service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Andrew Pratt, Funeral Director 306-693-4550
A very good friend many years ago. May he rest in peace. Condolences to the family.
My sincere condolences to Barry’s family
Barry was my back alley neighbor, and long time Park Hotel Beer Drinking Friend.
Saddened to hear of Barry’s death! Went through public & high school with him! He was very good at challenging the teachers and disrupting the class!
On behalf of the Widenmaier family we would like to acknowledge and thank those who have shared memories of our dear brother Barry.
Currently we are working on the obituary that will be posted in the coming days.
I was too young and naive to appreciate the driving force that Barry was in the Labour Movement in Moose Jaw. I have the privilege of hanging back and learning from this man along with my brother. Im sorry to hear of Barrys passing.
Bubba, To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die. You will forever be in mine dear brother. Until we meet again.
Love your sister Wendy ❤️
We always enjoyed seeing and talking with Barry. He was always sweet and kind and never failed to acknowledge us as he was out and about. Such a good soul! He will be missed. Rest easy Barry!
Yogi Weber & Stacey Landin
To the Widenmaier Family
I knew Barry for so many years and considered him a friend.
My deepest sympathies go out to you all.
Rest in peace and solidarity Barry.
Condolences to the Widenmaier family. I went through school with Barry and always considered him a friend. I had a nice visit with him about a year ago. R.I.P. Barry.
Barry was a very unique person you will be missed.
I had Barry as a student at Empire. I always found him to be a very good person.
Our school sent him to Ottawa to represent Moose Jaw as school safety patrol officier.
I remember that he came to school after lunch to tell me that President Kennedy had been assassinated.
Many good memories at RVCI with Barry. The guys organizing those Fri donut days. Condolences to all the family and his obituary write up was perfect way to remember Barry
My condolences to the family on the passing of Barry.
I knew him from my South Hill Moose Jaw days.
I am sorry to hear he had some difficulties in life, but I appreciate he was a strong NDP person as he did come from that part of town that supported working people.
arts were saddened to learn the news of our cousin Barry’s passing. He will be remembered for his expertise in politics, and unassuming manner. He was known and loved by many and will be dearly missed. We wish to express our heartfelt sympathy and hope that the kind words of your family and friends will make this difficult time a bit easier to bear. May his memory be a blessing.
Condolences to the Widenmaier family with Barry’s passing. Great memories of cousin Barry from our many family trips visiting him and his family both in Moose Jaw and Carnduff while visiting with our Grandparents. Rest in Peace.