Barry Van Dusen, 82, of Comox, British Columbia, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2026, surrounded by his family.
He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Steven and Deborah; his sisters, Susan (Ken) and Sandra (Danny); his grandson Damon; great-grandson, Bradley; and his many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and others whose lives he touched along the way. Barry was predeceased by his parents, Howard and Engsie, and his brother, Alan.
Barry was born on May 23, 1944, in Weyburn, Saskatchewan. On April 5, 1962, he began what would become a remarkable 26-year career with the Royal Canadian Air Force. His military service took him to France and Germany before he returned home to Canada, where he changed trades and became an AESOP. Over the course of his service, Barry travelled the world, experienced more than most, and formed friendships that lasted a lifetime. He was immensely proud of his military career and deeply cherished the years he spent serving his country.
When Barry retired from the military, retirement certainly did not mean slowing down. He continued to serve and contribute to the community he called home. From 1987 to 1993, he served on Comox Town Council. He was also a dedicated member of the Lions Club for more than 30 years, serving as District Governor from 1999 to 2000.
Barry believed strongly in giving back to his community, and his work with the Lions Club was a perfect expression of that commitment. He was instrumental in bringing the Lifeline System to the Comox Valley, and on February 22, 1988, he installed the very first Lifeline machine in the Valley—an accomplishment that reflected his desire to make a practical difference in the lives of others.
Perhaps Barry is best known for his most recent chapter as the owner and operator of the Whistle Stop Pub. For more than 23 years, he managed the Whistlestop, creating not simply a place of business, but a place where people gathered, stories were shared, friendships were made, and laughter was never in short supply. Barry always said that he had the best staff of any bar in BC, and he was genuinely proud of every person he had the privilege of working alongside.
But titles and accomplishments only tell part of Barry’s story.
Anyone who crossed Barry’s path—whether as a casual acquaintance, a business contact, a colleague, or a lifelong friend—quickly discovered his extraordinary love for life. He loved laughter, travel, family, and friends, and he had a gift for making people feel welcome.
And then there was Barry’s sense of humour. His quick wit, sly grin, and unmistakable laugh were as much a part of him as anything else. His humour will live on in countless family stories, and no doubt many of those stories will continue to be told with a smile, a laugh, and the words, “That was Barry.”
Barry lived a full and adventurous life. He served his country, served his community, built lasting friendships, and above all, created memories with the people he loved. His absence will be deeply felt by his family, his friends, his colleagues, and the many people fortunate enough to have known him.
There will be a burial service at the Courtenay Civic Cemetery on October 26th at 11am, followed by a reception at the Comox Valley Funeral Home, 1101 Ryan Road, from 12:30-2:30pm. All are welcome to attend and share in remembering Barry.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a Children’s Hospital of your choosing, in honor of Barry.
A celebration of Barry’s life will be held at a later date — and knowing Barry, what a celebration it will be.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a Children’s Hospital of your choosing, in honor of Barry.
