Donald Christopher 'Chris' Barrett

Glace Bay

It’s with broken hearts we announce the sudden passing of Donald Christopher Barrett, age 52, of Glace Bay, who died unexpectedly at home on October 1, 2025.

Born and raised in Glace Bay, he was the son of Donald “Duck” and Shirley (Blanchard) Barrett. Chris practiced dentistry for 25 years, most recently at Bayside Dental, where he was deeply respected by colleagues and patients alike. His steady hands and compassionate nature made him not only a skilled professional but also a source of comfort and trust for countless families in the community. Chris never forgot where he came from, and his ties to Glace Bay ran deep—through his patients, his friends, and the community he called home.

Chris is survived by his loving wife, Robin (Wilson), and their two cherished children, Emma (Jack) and Zack (Annie). Chris and Robin were high school sweethearts who shared 35 years together, a bond that shaped their family and brought him his greatest joy. He will also be dearly missed by his parents, Donald and Shirley; his parents-in-law, Robert and Rhonda Wilson; his sister Cheryl (John); and his sister-in-law Beth (Darrell). He was a devoted uncle to Kali, Deven, and Duncan.

He was predeceased by dear friends Kirby Moore and Jack Bonaparte.

Of all his accomplishments, Chris was proudest of Emma and Zack. He loved nothing more than watching them become capable, confident young adults. Even the thrill of watching them from the stands of the local rinks or on stage at Acadia couldn’t match the joy he felt in seeing them begin to find their own paths in life.

Chris was happiest when he was making memories with the people he loved. He looked forward to trips with old friends to Montreal for a hockey game, taking the family to Toronto to cheer on the Blue Jays, and especially anything that had to do with Disney. For Chris, it was about the fun, the adventure, and the time spent together. In the spirit of the magic he loved, he believed life was best lived with wonder, laughter, and family by your side.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Mark Ellerker and Dr. Laith Shimon for their kindness, compassion, and friendship over many years. Deep gratitude is also extended to the many doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and his personal therapist who provided care, guidance, and support over the past several years. To EHS and the first responders who arrived on the scene, the family is deeply thankful for your compassion during the unthinkable.

A special thank you goes to Tracy, Laura, Jay, and Ricky, and our tribe. Thank you to the Dental School Boys, whose friendship meant the world to Chris. The family also wishes to thank their colleagues at Bayside & Mayflower Dental Group, Pharmasave, and the CBRH Pharmacy Department for their unwavering love and support through this difficult time.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, October 7, at 11 AM at The Miners Forum and streamed online, so family, friends, and colleagues can gather to honor his memory and the lasting impact he made.

. “In Lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Chris can be made to the Cardiac Care Fund at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation.” Some choose to include “Donations can be made at www.cbrhfoundation.ca or by calling the office at 902-567-7752.

He will be remembered always as a devoted husband, proud father, loyal friend, and forever Blue Jays fan whose laughter and love of life left a mark on everyone who knew him.

“There’s a great big beautiful tomorrow, shining at the end of every day.

There’s a great big beautiful tomorrow, and tomorrow is just a dream away.”

— Carousel of Progress (The Magic Kingdom)