John Barrie of Medicine Hat passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Monday May 23, 2022 at the age of 76 years. John leaves his loving wife, Betty; son, Scott (Simona); daughter, Shalyn (Joe); brother, Alan; sister, Melva; grandchildren, Kaiden, Nico, Maeve, Christine, Tyler and Niki; mother-in-law, Mary; and three sisters-in-law, Lil, Judy and Sandra as well as numerous nieces and nephews. John was born in Medicine Hat and lived his whole life on the wide prairies of Alberta. He had an active childhood; helping his dad in the sign shop, lifeguarding at the local pool, floating down the South Saskatchewan river. It was through these experiences growing up that he developed his curiosity, his sense of humour and his mischievous side that people loved him so much for. The famous Helen Keller quote exemplifies John’s stance to life: "A well-educated mind will always have more questions than answers." He was both a lifelong learner and teacher with a sharp, curious and enquiring mind that led him to look for the deeper answers in life. He earned his Bachelor Degree in Education at the University of Alberta and went on to complete his Masters at the University of Gonzaga. John and Betty made their home in Medicine Hat where they had their two children, Scott and Shalyn. John began his teaching career at Medicine Hat High as the biology teacher. He then moved on to Crescent Heights High School where he became the Science Department Head. John’s generous spirit meant there were a steady stream of stories of the positive impact he had on his students’ lives as he helped guide them successfully through both their education and their development into young adults. He was also generous with his time outside of school where he spent many hours after school and on the weekends coaching basketball teams at both MHHS and CHHS. Whenever John ventured into the town he was routinely met with students to thank him for providing them with the tools and knowledge to succeed beyond school. Perhaps the most strongly seen were the nurses or doctor expressing how their chosen career path started in his biology classes. John’s unique curiosity in everything he encountered was something he shared and fostered in his children and grandchildren. Finding bugs in the garden, making homemade experiments, playing fun games together on his iPad, he was talented at connecting with children and meeting them at their level. He was extremely proud and supportive of his family and was always there to help. This was a constant theme from all those who knew him, you could rely on John to help you out. John will be deeply missed by family and friends who knew and loved him dearly. A private family celebration will take place at a later date. Those who wish to remember John with a donation, may do so to a charity of your choice. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading John Barrie.