Barry grew up in South Taranaki but moved to Waitara in the early 50’s to become associated with Wells and Westwood, a prominent clothing firm in Waitara. Upon the retirement of Mr Well (commonly known as Ikey Wells) Barry became a partner in the business with Alf Westwood, eventually taking over the business upon Alf’s retirement.
When the Waitara Lions Club was initially formed, Barry joined as a Charter member of the Club. Barry was also a Life member of our Club, and joined the service 51 years ago, when he was 27 years old.
Barry was President of the club when we sponsored the Charter of Urenui Lions Club in the year of 1972-73, and held various chairman positions involving Cash for Cans, and a loyal supporter of Blind Foundation also. Barry was never one to push himself forward, but always there to help in the background. If a project wanted man power, Barry was always there. Barry also often played the piano at Lion's functions having a good old fashioned sing along. His wife Dot was also actively involved in Club activities and will always be remembered for her working on cake stalls, daffodil days and other money raising activities.
In the latter years, Barry’s health precluded him from taking part in many of the club activities, but he always kept his eye on how the club was progressing and was not afraid to put his “tuppence” worth in of advice.
This was shown recently when we had the burial of the time capsule and Barry was brought along by car to oversee the burial as he was involved in the burial of the original capsule. His advice was when he arrived, was that the hole was not deep enough to bury the larger capsule. How right he was!!!
Barry retained his interest in the club until his recent illness precluded him from attending tea meeting but he still insisted in coming to the business section of the meeting to see that the club was progressing in the right direction.
Barry will leave a gap in the club, his cheerful nature and knowledge of club history will be sadly missed. His smile on his face when he wanted to chide Ken Bedford, he would reply to a question that it was “As good as gold” will no longer be heard.
