Walter R. “Wally” Barys, Sr., 96, of Partridge Hill Road, died Thursday, May 30, 2013, at Southbridge Rehabilitation and Care Center. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Ruth E. (Burns) Barys of Charlton; two sons, Walter “Skip” Barys, Jr. and his wife Judy of Auburn, and James A. Barys and his wife Elizabeth of Oakham; four grandchildren, Barbara Barys of Auburn, Robert Barys of Fort Myers, FL, Mitchell Barys of Worcester, and Julia Jewell of Albuquerque, NM; and three great grandchildren, Justin, Matthew, and Jenna. He was born in Worcester, the son of the late John and Catherine (Sypek) Barys, and lived in Holden before moving to Charlton in 1978. He graduated from Commerce High School in Worcester and was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II.
     Mr. Barys was a draftsman at Norton Company in Worcester for over 30 years, retiring in 1978. He enjoyed spending time at the lake, sailing, woodworking, and making wood decorations for his friends and neighbors. He loved life and enjoyed being around people, telling jokes, and being the life of the party.
     Memorial calling hours are Thursday, June 6, 2013, from 5-7 p.m. at Paradis Funeral Home, 357 Main St., Oxford. A private inurnment will be held at Worcester County Memorial Park at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Summit Elder Care, 88 Masonic Home Rd, Charlton, MA 01507.