Obituary of Barry Stephen Kobilarcik

Due to the weather the Funeral Mass for Barry will be held Tuesday 10:00 Am at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church. 
 

Barry Stephen Kobilarcik Sr., 74, passed away on February 18, 2026, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was born on February 23, 1951, to John and Bernice Kobilarcik and grew up in Montville, New Jersey, alongside his brother, John.

Barry lived a full and meaningful life defined by quiet strength, integrity, and unwavering devotion to his family. He was the standard for a good man, a great husband, and an even better father and grandfather. Family meant everything to him, and everything he did was for them. A master plumber by trade, he founded Sycamore Plumbing and Heating Company and ran the business for nearly 50 years, earning a reputation for craftsmanship, honesty, and reliability throughout the community.

He was a reserved, kind-hearted, selfless, and hardworking man with a subtle sense of humor that revealed itself in dry remarks, quiet wit, and gentle moments that brought smiles to those closest to him. His resilience was evident throughout his life, and especially after his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2024, as he remained positive and steadfast in the face of illness.

Nothing brought Barry more joy than being with his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 55 years, Chi Chi Kobilarcik; his children, Jodi (Leroy Harris), Amy (Michael Sampson), Danielle (Frank Whritenour), Barry Kobilarcik Jr. (Christine), and Grace (Justin Rodriguez). He built a home where the friends his children brought over were always welcomed, along with the many animals his kids begged to keep.

Barry was also a lifelong member of the Harmony Senior Drum Corps, a passion and favorite pastime where he formed some of his dearest friendships. Several of his children proudly joined the corps as well, becoming part of a tradition that meant so much to him.

In his spare time, Barry could often be found building—clubhouses, play spaces, and workshops—anything that would bring his family together. He took great pride in creating spaces for his children and loved ones, always putting his time, skills, and heart into making memories. He also built a beautiful family retreat where he cherished quiet moments and time spent with family.

When his grandchildren came along, Barry devoted himself to them—teaching them life skills, watching them play sports, and celebrating their accomplishments with immense pride. He leaves an indelible mark on the lives of his ten grandchildren: Indy, Charlotte, Mya, Sean, Abigail, Emily, Nicholas, Zoe, Juliet, and Thomas.

He is also survived by his brother, John Kobilarcik; sisters-in-law Peggy and Mary Lou; brother-in-law John; many nieces and nephews; and a large extended Kobilarcik family whom he loved dearly.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.