On behalf of Dr. Gillian Muir, Dean of WCVM:

Dear WCVM alumni and the entire veterinary community across Western Canada,

I am very sorry to let you know that Dr. Barry Blakley passed away over the weekend. He was joking and telling stories days before, and he was with his family and peaceful at the time of his passing.

It’s difficult to imagine our WCVM community without Barry, who has been part of this college for more than 50 years – as a veterinary student, a graduate student, a teacher, a department head, a researcher, a diagnostician, a mentor and a true storyteller.

Barry was internationally known for his expertise in veterinary toxicology. In addition to his teaching, research and diagnostic work at the WCVM and Prairie Diagnostic Services, Barry played an integral role in helping to develop the University of Saskatchewan’s Toxicology Centre. In recognition of his efforts, Barry received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the centre during its 40th anniversary celebrations in June 2023.

Barry’s commitment and outstanding service to the college, and to veterinarians and producers across Western Canada cannot be overstated. The Saskatchewan Veterinary Medical Association (SVMA) also honoured Barry for his service to the SVMA, the profession and the public by presenting him with the J.J. Murison Distinguished Veterinarian Award in 2019 — the highest level of recognition that the SVMA can bestow on a member.

Barry has been a good friend, colleague and supporter to many of us. For me, Barry played a very important role in my life — personally and professionally — and I know that so many others feel the same.

The funeral service for Dr. Blakley will take place next week.

Time: 1 p.m., Friday, March 22, 2024

Location: Augustana Evangelical Lutheran Church

Address: 1201 Broadway Ave, Saskatoon, Sask.

For those unable to attend in person, the funeral will be livestreamed in Room 2115 for the WCVM community.

Online access: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PhpKXURL6Zw

Barry, with his usual generosity, has established a scholarship: the Barry Blakley Graduate Student Award. Dr. Blakley’s family requests that donations be made to this scholarship in lieu of flowers or other gifts. To contribute, visit https://donate.usask.ca/online/wcvm.php (select the “Barry Blakley Graduate Student Award” under the “Gift Designation” tab).

Barry will be sorely missed by all of us, and we send our deepest condolences to his family.

The obituary for Dr. Blakley can be found at the following link: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/en-ca/obituaries/saskatoon-sk/barry-blakley-11703525