Date Of Birth: October-21-1946
Date Deceased: June-4-2025
Age at Death: 78
Cause of Death: Heart Attack
Classmate City: Thompson Falls
Classmate State: MT
Survived By: Barry has four children: Sheila, Andy, B.J. & Bodie.
Barry Leaf, age 78, has gone fishing in the great beyond. Born and raised in Burien, WA, Barry grew up the eldest of three children. Though a “city” kid by address, he took to the wild early—spending his formative years fishing the Humptulips River and Summit Lake, casting lines in Sekiu, and hunting the hills alongside his Grandpa Andy and Uncle Ed. These early outdoor adventures left a lifelong imprint, and Barry retold them often. After graduating from Highline High School (Class of '65), Barry started his career at Bethlehem Steel before joining Pacific NW Bell and, eventually, Seattle City Light. It was there he found his calling as an electrical lineman—a profession that suited him to a T. He later worked for Potelco and eventually retired from Grant County PUD in 2010. Barry found his stride as a lineman. He liked the challenge of the work and the way the job let him roam—throughout Washington and beyond. Wherever he went, Barry made friends easily. He had a knack for storytelling, a mischievous sense of humor, and a genuine warmth that drew people in. And when the workday ended, he’d often find himself casting from his drift boat or tracking game in the woods—never far from the next great catch or tall tale. In retirement, Barry moved to Thompson Falls, MT to be closer to family. Nestled by the Clark Fork River and surrounded by nature, he found his version of paradise. He never tired of watching the deer wander by his doorstep or taking in the Montana sky, grateful every day to have his son and grandkids nearby. Barry Leaf was a character in the best sense of the word—funny, loyal, flawed, and fiercely loved. He lived life on his own terms and leaves behind stories, friendships, and family who will carry his memory forward. Godspeed, Barry. We hope the fish are biting.