Obituary of Barry Paul Byrwa

 

 

Barry Paul Byrwa (July 5, 1956 - June 30, 2024) age 67, fought a brave battle with cancer, supported by his Catholic faith, his friends and his extended family. He was predeceased by his parents Grace Burkett and WW2 vet Paul R. Byrwa. Barry was also preceded in death by beloved nephew Pvt. Michael Vomish, Monica Wheeler, sisters Beatrice Bailey and Marge Comiskey, godfather WWI vet Joseph Cordaro (Keep Cool), and Grandmother Mary Byrwa who helped raise him.

 

Barry leaves behind many who loved him. He was Cathy Deniker’s companion of 11 years, with their dog Fancy. He was the dear brother of Patricia (George) Vomish, and uncle to nephews Ray, Ty and Chris, niece Pamela, and several great-nephews and nieces.

 

Barry was the beloved father of Michelle (Robert) Schultz, Brandy (Drew) Hill, Brittney (Andrew) Duprey and stepson Joe (Ellen) Bazman. He was the cherished grandfather of Cassie (Eric) Thomesen, Caden (Madisson) Dorsett (USMC), Karlie and McKenna Kalischko, Avery, Landon and Bo Hill, & Clay and Rowan Duprey. He was the delighted step-grandfather of Laurie Hamil, Tyler (Sarah) Schultz, Courtney and Hailea Schultz and Leah Bazman, and proud great-grandfather of Eric Thomesen, Jr., Everleigh Thomesen, Brynlee Cooper and Laurie Schultz. 

 

Barry will be deeply missed by his many friends, especially Tom and Dutch Cobb, Mike Cobb, and Ken DeLorey who were very supportive and generous throughout his illness. Barry’s family especially thanks cousins Kathy Berry and Maria Willoughby-Byrwa for their frequent visits of support, cheer and prayer.

 

A 1975 graduate of Redford High School, Barry loved to drive. He was very proud of his commercial truckers' license and numerous driver safety awards. He drove large industrial recycling trucks for BFI, Veolia and Falcon Transport. Barry turned down offers from JB Hunt and other long distance trucking firms so he wouldn’t spend time away from his family. His Catholic faith was important throughout his life. He was a member of St. Colette parish, Livonia, and belonged to the K of C and the Garden City VFW. Although not a veteran himself, Barry valued highly the military service of family members and friends.

Family and friends were recevied on Saturday July 27th from 10:30 until the hour of the Blessing Service at 11:30 a.m. in Galone-Caruso Funeral Home Inc., Mt. Pleasant.  A Memorial Mass followed at noon in St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church, Everson. Inurnment took place in St. Joseph Parish Cemetery, Everson.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans.  All arrangements have been entrusted to Galone-Caruso Funeral Home Inc., Mt. Pleasant.  To leave an online condolence please visit our website at www.galone-carusofuneralhome.com

 

The Trucker’s Last Ride

He traveled the roads

In years gone past

A life he chose and

Hoped it would last

Driving all night

From state to state

Trying to get home

And arriving so late

He parked his truck now

His engine has stopped

And those who loved him

Their hearts have dropped

He traveled the country

With a smile of great pride

Now he drives the streets of Heaven

On the truckers last ride

MAY GOD RIDE WITH YOU