BARBEE, William J. Vincent Barbee

BARBEE, William J. Vincent  –

May 19, 1952 – July 28, 2023

Vince was born in Raleigh, North Carolina. He landed in Toronto via the North Carolina School of the Arts and later, the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia.

Hired by the National Ballet of Canada to tour with the orchestra in 1977, Vince ended up spending the rest of his life in Toronto, where he was a member of the ballet orchestra and freelance horn player for almost 40 years.

The phrase one-of-a-kind is overused, but apt. He was erudite, outgoing, witty, had an uncanny sense of comedic timing and made friends wherever he travelled.

Everyone has a favourite story about one of his many shenanigans.

Playing the horn, preparing and eating good food with friends, cycling, and conversation were among his preferred activities. Sadly, each of those was taken away in succession but Vince never complained.

Despite his decline, he savoured every day and was gentlemanly and gracious to the end. The outlet to vent his frustration took the form of benign rants at Radio 2 hosts.

We’re sure they were listening. His brother, Victor, and sister-in-law, Julie, were with him when he died.

He also leaves cherished nephew, William; and niece, Josephine; as well as many friends who will miss him.

The date for a party in Vince’s memory has not yet been set.

TorontoObituaries.com

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