Obituary of Glenn Colin BARNES

Glenn C. Barnes

Jan. 12, 1969 – Feb. 23, 2023

Glenn, the son of Sam Barnes, Mississauga. Pre-deceased by his mother, Margaret Barnes, brother of Jeff Barnes of Toronto and nephew to Jim Waddington of Orangeville passed away due to complications from a pressure sore that he had under treatment for some time.

Glenn was the athlete of the year in his high school and went on to graduate from Brock University with a phys. Ed. degree. He worked one year as a teaching assistant at Gordon Graydon Public School.  Glenn was preparing to be a teacher.

He was injured (quadriplegic) in a diving incident in our home pool in 1992 and has spent most of his life in his electric wheelchair. Despite his condition, and many health challenges, he led a full and productive life.

His motto was: “I have learnt to focus on what I can do – not what I cannot do”. He was active in the community serving those with physical challenges and was the inspiration for many. In the early years, he made presentations to high school students that focused on making wise choices and ensuring they were prepared and trained for whatever was ahead.

As the Tetra coordinator for Ontario he made many contacts and was appointed to the Provincial Committee to make recommendations to the government of the day before the current Disability Act was introduced to Parliament. He served in a similar fashion for the Region of Peel, the Cities of Brampton and Mississauga and served as the Chair of the Region’s Disability Committee.

In later years, he was the main fundraiser for the Tetra Society and was successful in getting many grants from many organizations.

His life was a big challenge, but he was up for it. He will be missed by the many people he touched during his time with us.

Donations in Glenn’s memory may be made to the Tetra Society of North America.

There will be a gathering of friends and relatives to commemorate Glenn's amazing life on Saturday March 4th from 2 PM - 5 PM at McMaster House on the grounds of Fairways Condominium at 1400 Dixie Road, Mississauga. Please bring your special stories and any mementos that you have of him to share.

Online condolences may be made at www.imfunerals.com

In Memoriam Funeral Services Inc. has been given the honour to serve the Barnes Family.