Bernard "Ben" Baril

Bernard Baril, aged 95, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at the Algonquin Nursing Home in Mattawa.

He was a devoted husband to Mary Barbara Baril (Sargent) pre-deceased, for 73 years and a loving father to 5 children: Ann Mary Hill (Ronald), Michael Baril, Jeffrey Baril (Laurie), John Baril (Susan) and Jennifer McAllister (Keith). He had 13 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren who will miss him dearly.

Born in Temiscaming, Quebec on August 31, 1930, he was the son of Ludovic and Jeanne Baril (Clouthier). He is survived by his sisters: Claire Baril-Pharand (Adrien deceased), Monique Baril- Jones (Douglas deceased) and Lise Baril-Gauthier (Gilbert).

Ben was a talented musician who instilled the same love of music to all his children. All played various instruments and two of the boys, Jeffrey and John played in his band, The Music Makers. He was in charge of the Army Cadet Band at the Chippewa Barracks, he was a member of the Algonquin Regiment Engineers, a member of the North Bay Citizens Band and the North Bay Symphony. He was still playing his saxophone and clarinet until the end.

Ben worked for the Ontario Hydro Regional Office until his retirement and while there he was involved in organizing the annual Hydro Winter Carnaval. Ben was a fourth-degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed all kinds of sports: golfing, skiing, fishing, hunting, sailing, horseback riding. He loved to socialize and was always up for a new adventure. Dad made many friends in his lifetime and left us with wonderful memories to cherish.

Cremation has taken place and the family will celebrate his life privately in the Spring.

Donations to the Alzheimer’s Society would be greatly appreciated in lieu of flowers.

 You are gone but never forgotten.