Obituary of Barry H. Starr Q.C.

March 21^st, 1944 - March 13^th, 2026

On March 13^th, at home surrounded by family, following a battle with cancer which he fought with great determination, and without complaint.

Beloved only child of Harold and Esther (née Skuce), Barry was a loving husband to Molly (née Harris), a devoted father to his children, Jeffrey (Vanessa), Danny (Kïrsten) and Kerry (Andres) and a proud grandfather to Ella, Tate, Henry, Lexi, Ty, Vaughan, Fraser and Tripp.

Born and raised in Ottawa, Barry attended Fisher Park High School and later the University of Ottawa, where he played half back on the football team. Following Ottawa U, Barry attended Queen’s University Law School, graduating in 1969. He went on to become a prominent civil litigator, a member of the Ontario Bar for nearly 50 years and a co-founder of Rassmussen Starr Ruddy, where he practiced law for 32 years.

He met his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Molly in 1959. Over the next 66 years they built a life together, enjoying an active lifestyle, surrounded by many friends and many, many ski trips.  In retirement Molly and Barry spent winters in St. Anton, Austria; and later Breckenridge, Colorado; taking trips in between that brought them all over the world.

Barry was a passionate athlete who passed on both his abilities, and his love of sport to his children, and later, his grandchildren. He delighted in recounting with pride their successes on the ski hill, rugby pitch, tennis court, football or lacrosse field.

An uncomplicated man, Barry loved three things – skiing, spending time at the cottage in Norway Bay and his family. He had a sharp intellect, a prodigious memory and a nearly encyclopedic knowledge of sports history.

Barry was singular, and there will never be another like him. We will forever miss being on the receiving end of his solid advice, firmly held opinions and unwavering loyalty.

A Celebration of Life is to be held at the Royal Ottawa Golf Club, 1405 Aylmer Road, Gatineau on Sunday, March 29^th from 1-5 pm.

Barry fought his cancer diagnosis with an unparalleled tenacity, refusing to yield or to sacrifice the things he loved doing most. In lieu of flowers, donations to The Ottawa Cancer Foundation and The Ottawa Food Bank that may help others face difficulties with the same courage and grace, are appreciated.

A tremendous thanks to Dr. Claudia Hubbes for her care over the last four years.