It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Burlington guitarist
Barry Smallbone. He was a member of
SwingLine and various other groups. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.
SMALLBONE, Dr. Barry William B.Sc. Ph.D.
Unexpectedly in Hamilton on Sunday, December 16,2018 at the age of 66. Son of Margaret Smallbone (nee Peace) and the late Sidney Smallbone (October, 1999). Beloved husband of Nora Chen. Loving father of Laura Smallbone, Emily Ramsay (Arthur) and Colin Smallbone. Cherished grandfather of Daisy and Ella Ramsay. Brother of Randall Smallbone (Sandy), the late Mary-Ellen Iverson (Bruce), who by tragic coincidence died the same day and Heather Krick (Charles). He will be dearly missed by his nieces and nephews. Barry had a Ph.D. in biochemistry and was a talented guitar player. He will also be remembered for his love of car races. Cremation has taken place. Visitation at SMITH’S FUNERAL HOME, 1167 Guelph Line (one stoplight north of QEW), BURLINGTON (905-632-3333), on Saturday from 3-5 and 7-9p.m. Service of Remembrance will be held in the funeral home chapel on Sunday, December 23rd at 11a.m. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Barry are asked to please consider the Joseph Brant Hospital Foundation.
His daughter Laura Anne posted the following on Facebook:
My Dad had a PhD in Biochemistry and worked most of his life to make sure the city of Hamilton had clean, safe drinking water. I got my love of Science from him. He loved the guitar and was a very talented musician. I regretted not learning how to play from him and I had asked him to teach me this summer. He also loved watching car races and I loved going with him when I was a little girl. He loved little kids and always reminisced about how much fun he had with my sister, brother and I when we were small. Over the past year my Dad struggled with crippling mental illness. He is at rest now, hopefully watching us from heaven as he plays away peacefully on his guitar. I love you Dad, please rest in peace.
Frequent musical collaborator
Shari Vandermolen had this to say:
Saddened to learn of the passing of Barry Smallbone. I enjoyed making music with Barry - he was a sweet soul who always played guitar by my side in SwingLine. Rest In Peace Barry and I hope you’re enjoying playing with some of the greats up there. Sending much love to his family and friends in this difficult time.
If anyone knows of any YouTube videos featuring Barry, please email us at
blueshamilton@gmail.com and we will post them on this page. Thank you.
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