Please visit the following link for livestream of the service:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PUP47o76EY
John “Kerry” Columbus of Barrie, Ontario, at the age of 72, passed away suddenly but peacefully by his wife’s side at home on April 7, 2022. Born in Midland Ontario, he was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Marjorie Columbus (nee Best). Kerry will be forever missed by his beloved wife Joyce Columbus of Barrie; daughter, Tanya Columbus of Barrie; son, Sean Columbus and his wife Laura of East Gwillimbury; and granddaughter, Alina Columbus of East Gwillimbury. He is brother of Ronald Columbus and his wife Patricia of Windsor, Marnie Denney and her husband Derwyn of Baxter, and the late Marlene O’Donnell. Kerry is brother-in-law of Harry Dutka and his wife Ellen of Taylor, Michigan, the late Sonya Babcock, Catherine Rowe of Chatham, and Lance Babcock and his wife Carol-Anne of Chatham.
Kerry graduated from the University of Western Ontario in Civil Engineering that lead to his career with the City of Barrie for 34 years as a Professional Engineer. He progressed through management to the position of Commissioner of Community Services. Kerry provided a visionary leadership managing many significant projects such as the Waterfront Development, Bus Terminal, Marina, Lake Simcoe Regional Airport, and major infrastructure projects as Barrie rapidly grew over the years. After retiring from the City of Barrie in 2006, Kerry was hired by the Town of Innisfil as the Director of Community Services in 2008 to 2012. He was involved in the building of the Innisfil Recreation Centre, beachfront development and many other contributions at that municipality.
Kerry will be remembered by always having a smile on his face, making the time to have a friendly conversation and having a great sense of humour. Kind and loving to his entire family and friends, he would always brighten anyone’s day with a story to tell. He was always anxious to share his incredible vast knowledge of many topics, whether it was how to fix or build something to knowing about the latest upcoming innovative technology or architectural structure.
Kerry was devoted to his family providing support in the many activities that they participated in. He enjoyed music and a number of activities throughout his life. He previously loved playing squash, skiing outdoors, swimming, going for walks, and even was a judo champion during his younger years.
The family wish to thank all the friends in his life, and to all of those that have helped him along the way. An appreciation goes to the medical staff, nurses and doctors that improved his quality of life and enabled him to spend more time with loved ones and to enjoy the things he loved.
Visitation will be held at Steckley-Gooderham Funeral Home, 30 Worsley St., Barrie, ON, L4M 1L4 on Saturday, April 16, 2022 from 1-2 pm followed by a Funeral Service at 2pm. Reception inside the lounge to follow. The wearing of a facial covering is requested by the family.
As an expression of sympathy, donations to Diabetes Canada, the Heart and Stroke Foundation or to The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, Barrie, would be greatly appreciated. Online condolences and memories may be left at www.steckleygooderham.com