Barry Lee Emch

Barry Lee Emch, age 77, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Saturday afternoon, June 29, 2024 at his home. 

Barry was born in Erie, PA on June 2, 1947, a son of the late Leo and Nelda (Cecil) Emch, the fifth of six children. 

Barry graduated from Harborcreek High School in 1965, where he excelled on the basketball court. Barry married Paulette on June 5, 1976, they were married 48 years. Barry was the Transportation Supervisor for the Erie School District, before retiring in 2002. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Nina and her husband Joe Soety, Nila and her husband Jim Alberico, and his brother, Randy Emch. 

Barry and Paulette had two children together, daughter Carissa married to Matthew Atwell and a son, Barry Matthew Emch. His pride and joy, two grandchildren, Lauren Atwell and Owen Atwell. He is also survived by his brother, Ronald Emch and his wife Denise, sister-in-law, Beaty Emch, a sister, Nancy (Tootsie) Emch and many nieces and nephews he cared for deeply. 

Through the years Barry was an avid boater, a phenom on water skis and found his serenity on the shores of Lake Erie. On land, he found his freedom on his motorcycle. He enjoyed cheering for his grandchildren on the volleyball and basketball courts. Barry had a deep connection with his animals, rescuing countless animals in need of a loving home. Later in life he found peace sitting in his gazebo making friends in neighbors and pets passing by. 

Family and friends may call at the Burton Quinn Scott Cremation and Funeral Services, West Ridge, 3801 W. 26th Street on Wednesday, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of a brief service at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to an Animal Shelter: Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, Because you Care, EARS, ANNA Shelter or Erie Animal Shelter. 

Send condolences at www.BurtonQuinnScott.com