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David Barris

David “Dave” Barris, age 69, passed away in the comfort of his home on March 2, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer with his loving wife by his side. He was born on March 22, 1954, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. Dave’s journey touched the lives of many, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of strength and resilience. His tireless spirit in the face of adversity was an inspiration to all who knew him.

Dave graduated from Taconic High School in Pittsfield in 1972 and Norwich University in 1976, where he was captain of the men’s downhill ski team and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in biology. Dave and his family relocated to Madison in the early 1980s, where he accomplished his lifelong dream of becoming a small business owner. He founded Environmental Consulting Labs Inc. in 1985, a water quality testing lab that quickly became his pride, joy, and life’s work. He poured his heart and soul into the business. He also had a passion for the slopes. In the winter months, he spent his time on the sides of the trails, coaching his children in downhill ski racing throughout New England. In the spring season, he coached many of his son’s Little League baseball teams.

In addition to owning his own business, he was an avid member of a variety of local golf clubs, where he enjoyed downtime with his close friends and colleagues. Time outdoors in nature, traveling the shoreline roads in his convertible, enjoying the open seas on his boat, tending to his organic gardens, and relaxing to the strum of his guitars also brought Dave much happiness.

Dave is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of almost 47 years, Shawn McColgan Barris, and his beloved children, daughter Kimberly Barris and her husband, Wade Rossomando, and his son Michael Barris and his wife, Jordan. Dave was also blessed with five loving grandchildren: Trevor, Peyton, Cole, Dylan, and Brooke. Attending their sports and activities filled his life with immense joy. Dave also leaves behind his two brothers, Peter and Christopher and (Jamie) Barris; his brothers-in-law, Scott and (Melinda), and Shane and Lance McColgan; mother-in-law, Angela McColgan; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Beatrice Barris; his sister, Mary; nephew, Andrew; and father-in-law, John “Mickey” McColgan. Dave will be remembered for his dedication and work ethic as Lab Director and founder of Environmental Consulting Labs Inc. His desire to improve water quality testing and serve the greater community will leave an everlasting impact on those who knew him.

A Mass of Christian burial to celebrate Dave’s life will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, April 26, at St. Margaret’s Church in Madison. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St.Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Tunnels to Towers in honor of Dave’s memory. Stjude.org/donatetoday St.Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 or T2T.org Tunnels to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10306.

Dave’s burial will be private. May he rest in eternal peace, free from pain, and may his memory continue to bring comfort to those who mourn his passing.