Chris Barr

The Isle of Man, his numerous friends and the many charities with which he was involved will be deeply mourning the  very sad loss of Chris Barr today.

I well recall him having lunch at our home on Christmas Day only a few weeks ago. He was as always in good form, full of stories of all that was going on around the Island.  Meanwhile he was receiving treatment for his terrible disease although you would not of known it.

His courage and fortitude were amazing.  At Age Concern’s Christmas lunch at The Empress for it’s volunteers Chris attended, left half way through to go for treatment at Nobles and then returned as if nothing had happened.  He also did full justice to his Christmas meal. What guts - what a man!!

He was a proud Irishman and someone of deep faith which he was not afraid to talk about. This and his sense of humour kept him going through the awful burden he was carrying. He told me that if there is an Age Concern in Heaven he will be up there with the best of them organising the Angels!

As well as being very good friends Chris and I were colleagues on the Age Concern Board where Chris was Deputy Chairman and also Company Secretary. His contribution was immense. Throughout all the ups and downs his wisdom, support and sheer hard work made all the difference.  All the Board and everybody connected with Age Concern are very aware that since that day in 2007 when he joined us, we owe him as huge debt of gratitude. We have also lost a wonderful friend and an inspiration to many of us.

His suffering is now over and he is a peace with his Lord.

Malcolm