BARRY CHARLTON

Sunday, April 29, 1951 ~ Tuesday, July 3, 2018

It is with deep sadness that we share the news of Barry Charlton’s passing at the age of 67 years after losing his valiant battle with multiple sclerosis. Barry passed away on Tuesday, July 3, 2018, with his family by his side.

Barry will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Karen; son, Branden (Elizabeth Nutting); sisters, Roberta McDonald, Catherine Glover (Barry) and Dixie Duff as well as his sister-in-law, Maureen Moss. Barry was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Elsa Charlton, in-laws, Harold “Sparkie” and Edith Sparks and brothers-in-law, Dennis Moss and Brent McDonald.

Born on April 29, 1951 and raised in Medicine Hat, Alberta, Barry was a graduate of Medicine Hat High School, where he met his high school sweetheart, Karen Sparks. After high school both Karen and Barry moved to Calgary to attend the University of Calgary, where Barry graduated with his Bachelor of Education. Karen and Barry were married after his university graduation on August 25, 1973, in Medicine Hat and welcomed their son, Branden, into the world on March 26, 1980.

Both Barry and Karen started their careers in Hilda, Alberta where they taught for two years. As Karen’s career with the City of Medicine Hat began, Barry transferred schools and spent the majority of his teaching career at Irvine School, teaching generations of children for nearly 30 years. His last years of teaching were spent in Redcliff at the Margaret Wooding School. In addition to his role as a grade five teacher, Barry also taught art where he could allow his creativity to shine. Starting with gluesticks and safety scissors, Barry ended up teaching art using digital technology while he taught schools remotely in rural communities throughout Alberta.

After retiring from teaching, Barry launched his second career, opening Fresh Flowers and Gifts in 2007. Offering Medicine Hat a fresh new perspective on floral design, Barry’s creativity and customer service built a devoted customer base and Fresh Flowers was recognized as the Best Florist in Medicine Hat in 2013 and 2014. Barry’s favourite part, of course, was working on weddings, knowing that he could make the bride’s day with stunning flowers. It wasn’t until Barry was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2015 that he had to sell his beloved shop.

Barry spent the last years of his life with friends and family travelling to places like New York City, Paris, France and Canmore, Alberta. His most memorable trip was to London, England for the royal wedding (which happened to coincide with his 60th birthday).

Barry led a beautiful life filled with creativity and laughter, always reminding us “earth laughs in flowers.” A graveside service will be held at Hillside Cemetery on Monday, July 9, 2018, at 11:00 a.m. where we can all fondly remember Barry as the life of the party. A reception will be held therafter at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, Reception Facility, 901 – 13 Street S.W. Those wishing to attend the interment are asked to meet at Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, by 10:45 a.m to join the procession to Hillside Cemetery. Honoured to serve the family is

Cook Southland Funeral Chapel, 901 – 13th Street S.W. Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 4V4 Phone 403-527-6455