As Barry's wife during the years in which he served in the Alberta Legislature, I know how dedicated he was to his constituents and how committed he was to the New Democratic Party and the values of both socialism and equitable distribution of wealth in all ways possible in Canadian democracy.
Barry's zest for life was amazing. He enjoyed meeting new people, teaching students, connecting with colleagues, and discussing both political and social issues. He did not hesitate to speak out or express his perspectives.
Of course, the most exciting time was when he got elected for the first time. His first meeting with the campaign team was typical of the way he taught and led. We all sat in a circle and each person spoke; when everyone had contributed ideas, he talked in a low key, friendly, and even casual way. His campaign manager was a U of C student. I helped him then and at other times in writing pamphlets, but he knew exactly what he wanted to say to the people in Forest Lawn.
Calgary in those years was not receptive to people on the left. But the arrival of the New Democrats in the Legislature was a break through that involved a lot of idealism and hope for social change.
Actually, I was often frightened by the possibility of violence against us, either in the constituency or in the place where we lived, his beloved Erlton Street, with the Elbow River rustling at the bottom of the garden.
I believe that Barry made an important contribution to the history of Alberta and of Calgary. He was in many ways a revolutionary but he believed in family ties.
Best wishes to everyone in Barry's family at this time of loss.
Alex (Alexandra Pett)
