Squamish is honouring the life of longtime community leader and former councillor Norm Barr, who passed away on October 21, 2025, at the age of 93. Barr was born on February 13, 1932, in Alta Lake (now Whistler) and grew up in Squamish during the Depression-era “Dirty Thirties.”
After graduating high school, Barr worked in the forestry industry and went on to build a successful career as a logging contractor. According to his family, he earned a reputation as one of the most trusted operators on the coast, known for his honesty and reliability. “A handshake deal with Norm Barr was as solid as they come,” the family noted.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Barr, along with colleagues and employees, volunteered time, equipment, and resources to support community projects. Their contributions helped develop key public facilities still used today, including Squamish General Hospital, the Squamish Curling Club, Squamish Golf Club, Squamish Airport, seniors housing, Centennial Field, Logger Sports Grounds, and the town’s original outdoor pool near the high school.
Barr served on the municipal council during a period of significant growth, working alongside Mayor Pat Brennan and Dr. LaVerne Kindree.
He played a role in the amalgamation of Squamish, Garibaldi Highlands, and Brackendale into one municipality and supported major infrastructure projects, including upgrades to the water system, construction of two secondary sewage treatment plants, and creation of the river diking system. He also helped establish the community’s first affordable seniors’ housing developments, Cedars and The Manor.
Barr was the last surviving charter board member of the Squamish Senior Living Society, and Brennan Park Leisure Centre remains a lasting community project from his era. He was also known for his sense of humour, once running for council with friend Nick Candy under the “Candy-Barr” slogan.
Community members credit Barr’s decades of volunteerism and public service with helping shape modern Squamish. His legacy continues through the facilities and programs he helped build, as well as the community spirit he fostered.
Barr is remembered by his family, friends, and the wider Squamish community.
