SPRINGFIELD – Michael Francis Barry, 76, of Springfield, passed on Monday, April 2, 2018 at Baystate Medical Center. Michael was born in Rockingham, VT, a beloved son of the late William Joseph and Geneva Agnes (Belaski) Barry. He moved to Springfield and graduated from Springfield Technical High School in 1960 where he was an All-Western Mass champion diver. He was active with both the Springfield Boys’ Club and the YMCA of Greater Springfield where he enjoyed swimming and diving. He retired as a painter from the Springfield Civic Center in 2008. He also worked for over 40 years as a part-time bartender at Donnie’s Café in Springfield where he often held court with his inimitable wit. He was always the funniest guy in the room without even trying and left everyone in his presence laughing. After a childhood injury, Michael often wore an eye patch that earned him the nickname "one-eye," and was the only non-fictional character in history who could actually pull that off as rakish and cool. Above all, Michael was a dedicated and loving family man who cherished time spent with his children and grandson. Michael leaves his beloved daughter, Lesha Barry of Springfield; his beloved son, Michael Barry, II of Boston; his cherished grandson, Milo of Springfield; his former wife, Patricia (Allen) Barry of Winsted, CT; his dear brother, Peter Barry of Springfield; his dear sister, Katherine McCarthy of Springfield; his dear sister-in-law, Judith Barry of Springfield; and his many dear nephews, nieces, cousins, friends and extended members of the Barry family. In addition to his parents, he was also predeceased by his loving partner and companion of over 27 years, Brenda Garrow; and his two dear brothers, Rev. John Barry and William Barry. A Memorial Service for Michael will be held at a future date. His funeral arrangements are entrusted to the St. Pierre – Phaneuf Springfield Chapels, (413-737-1177), 7 Chapin Terrace, Springfield, MA 01107. Michael’s family requests that memorial donations be made in his memory to the Boys and Girls Club of Springfield, 481 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104.For more details, please visit: www.stpierrephaneuf.com
