Sydney Barnett

With great sadness the family announces Sydney's passing on Thursday, January 1, 2026. Born in Liverpool, England and son of the late Harris Solomon and the late Esther (Hetty) Barnett. Beloved husband of the late Lillette Cohen and the late Miriam Zelikina. Devoted stepfather of Boris. Dear brother and brother-in-law of the late Anne and the late Morris Torontour, the late Betty and the late Charles Cohen. Sydney will be deeply missed by his nephews and nieces, Michael and Alice Cohen, Lawrence and Sheila Cohen, Raina and Joe Carolla, Danilou Katz, Caroline Cohen, as well as all of his great-nephews and great-nieces.

Sydney worked on the dew line and was the proudest veteran. A man with a big heart, he never missed a year to volunteer in the remembrance day sale of poppies, organizing the Miriam Home yearly Chanukah party, and collecting funds for share the warmth. He served as secretary for the Côte St-Luc Men’s Club for several years. An avid stamp collector, loved playing scrabble and later at the residence the luckiest bingo player. An avid soccer fan who cheered for his loved Everton and Liverpool teams.

Making lifelong friendships, Sydney always friendly to everyone with a huge smile. He was fortunate to have travelled the world making amazing experiences with both his late partners. 

He will be missed by his oldest dear friend from age 16 Noel Butler and all who knew and loved him.

Very special gratitude to Raina, his sweetheart niece for her devotion and love in taking such wonderful care and for being there and ensuring to be his advocate. 

The family wishes to thank and are most grateful to his caregivers Eden and Hana, Waldorf Residence staff, Steger Residence staff and all the nurses and staff who took great care in his well being at Maimonides Geriatric Centre. 

Funeral service from Paperman & Sons, 3888 Jean Talon St. W., on Friday, January 2 at 2:00 p.m. Burial at the Independent Hebrew Section, Baron de Hirsch Cemetery, de la Savane. Contributions in Sydney’s memory may be made to the Donald Berman Maimonides Foundation, (514) 483-2121 ext. 72207 or click here.