Barry M. Mitchell Retired Lt., Harwich Police Dept.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barry Mitchell on September 22, 2024, at the age of 68. After fighting for four-months following a devastating stroke, Barry passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. He fought to recover but lost his battle with the resulting complications.

Born on July 17, 1956, Barry was a true Cape Codder, whose love for his lifelong home was evident throughout his journey. But Barry’s heart also belonged to Maine, where he spent many childhood Christmases with his mother’s family. To him, Christmas was the best day of the year. These trips to Maine inspired a lifelong love of Christmas that he shared with his family in adulthood, instilling that same joy in the next generation.

As a student, Barry attended Barnstable High School and Cape Cod Community College. In High School athletics, he made the school proud by excelling in track and field. And as the lead singer in the school’s musicals, he captivated audiences. As a teenager, he spent countless summer days lifeguarding at Kalmus Beach and working as a deckhand on the ferry to Nantucket. Some of his favorite memories were of the times the captain allowed him to steer the steamship home. These first jobs helped to nurture Barry’s deep connection to these shores and surfaced his innate desire to serve and protect people in danger.

Barry dedicated 35 years to the Harwich Police Department, rising through the ranks to retire as Lieutenant. His commitment to his community was unwavering, serving in a variety of crucial roles, including as a court officer, on the Drug Task Force, and as a compassionate advocate for survivors of child abuse at Children’s Cove. His legacy of service touched many lives and earned him the respect and admiration of his brothers and sisters in law enforcement, as well as that of the community he loved and protected.

Barry’s relationship with God brought him peaceful assurance and grew as he aged. Through prayer, praise, and gratitude he experienced God’s presence in palpable ways. He appreciated learning about the Lord through listening to sermons of favorite faith leaders, and putting into practice what he discovered.

In retirement, Barry found joy in volunteering at the Cape Cod National Seashore. With a wealth of knowledge about Cape history and geography, he became the go-to person for staff and visitors, helping them customize their adventures and discover the beauty of the Cape.

Barry had a profound appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. He loved cooking at home for Janet, or for their children, grandchildren, and friends. He looked forward to his annual birthday trip to Bar Harbor, which was always celebrated with a fresh-from-the-boat lobster roll. Whether he was quietly sitting by the fire pit, reading the latest novel or history book, cheering on the Patriots, or experiencing the rush of NASCAR, Barry was a happy man. A huge fan of country music, Barry enjoyed playing along with his perfected air guitar solos. He cherished walks in the mountains of Maine, and along the National Seashore here at home, but his favorite place was Saints Landing in Brewster. Barry’s love for music and laughter and nature created countless cherished memories.

Barry was charming and gregarious, but he was more than that. He felt at home in all settings and made others feel at home when they were with him. At every restaurant, grocery store, or pitstop on a trip, his ability to engage warmly and kindly with others left them feeling happier for having shared even a moment with him.

Barry is predeceased by his parents, Laurence and Jean (Octeau) Mitchell. He is survived by his beloved wife Janet; his brother Jon and wife Jennie; children Molly and Emily Mitchell; Meredith (Wescott) Perry, Bill Wescott, Tracey Myers; and grandchildren Crew, Dylan, Avery, Claire, Jack, Juliana, Emma, and Craig; brother- and sister-in-law Dan Gagliarde and Nancy Brown. He also leaves behind many close friends and respected colleagues who helped him build and enjoy a beautiful life.

A celebration of Barry’s life will be held on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at 11:30 AM at Brewster Baptist Church (1848 Main St, Brewster, MA 02631). All are warmly invited to attend.

Rest in peace, Bear/Dad/Grampy. You will be deeply missed, but your spirit will live on in our hearts.

His family wishes to extend special thanks to the teams at Cape Cod Hospital, especially the Emergency Center Staff and Broad Reach Healthcare for their devoted care in support of Barry.

Donations may be made in lieu of flowers to: Barnstable County Children’s Cove: The Cape and Islands Child Advocacy Center (PO Box 427, Barnstable, MA 02630).