Ed C. Barry

“Ed, you are one in 7 billion,” remarked one of the many Big Sky kids that knew Ed.

Another described Ed as a deeply quiet spirit who gained strength from solitude and who was generous with his time.

 Ed, Eddie, Barry gained his eagle’s wings on Friday, July 26, 2024, passing away due to complications from a stroke. In the few hours before he passed, he was surrounded by his “ family of friends” listening to his stories of Big Sky Kids camps and hiking adventures. Ed ever the story teller.

 He was born on June 21, 1950, in Trieste, Italy, to Pat and Fiorella Barry. The family moved to Denver, CO, when he was one, and later to Bozeman where he graduated from Holy Rosary High School in 1968. He went on to study at MSU, before he was drafted into the army. He served 2 years in Germany and returned to MSU to finish his degree in Physical Education. Back in Bozeman, Ed worked at the Bozeman High School as a para with Special Education for over 30 years. During his time with the Bozeman Public Schools he was characterized as being dependable, loyal, and kind.

 In his 20s Ed was diagnosed with Leukemia and underwent a bone marrow transplant in Seattle. This was the beginning of his lifelong journey with cancer. For many years, Ed fooled cancer and his doctors with his strength and determination to live. He was an inspiration to fellow cancer patients with whom he stayed in close contact over the years. As Ed described it, “I had a lot of challenges in my life. Fortunately people showed up in my life to help me get through those challenges, and that’s what I feel like I do now. I’m here if I’m needed.” He was resilient. He was gentle, modest, funny, and always there to help others.

 Ed was a walker. He was a photographer. He was an avid runner and walker. He was a coach for the Special Olympics program and immersed himself in the Eagle Mount Big Sky Kids Program from its inception in the early 80’s. He volunteered with all of the Eaglemount a programs, including the summer day camp, therapeutic swimming, and cross country skiing. He was selected to be a Torchbearer for the 2002 Special Olympics Torch Relay. He was a man devoted to his community and received the 2021 Prime award for his contributions to the larger Bozeman community. Ed’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Rest in Peace.

 Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Patrick and Fiorella Barry, and brother, Daniel. Survivors include Bobbie Parsons, Evelyn Smith, Jackie- Allen Zabel, and Ashleigh Zabel.

 Friends and family wish to thank Ed’s medical team of oncology social workers, doctors, nurses, and palliative care workers.

 A celebration of Ed’s life will be held at Eaglemount, 6901 Goldenstein Ln, Bozeman, MT 59715, on Sept. 15, at 4pm.

 Memorial donations can be made to the Ed Barry Campership at Eagle Mount (6901 Goldenstein Lane, Bozeman, MT 59715) or to Special Olympics Montana, BSAR- Memorial Ed Barry (P.O. Box 3507, Great Falls, MT 59403).