Barry L. Sosalla
Barry L. Sosalla, 68, of Eau Claire, passed away peacefully at his home, Monday, June 29, 2026, following a brave three-year battle with Stage 4 Kidney Cancer.
Known to many as “Bear” and to his grandkids as “Papa,” Barry was a devoted husband, dad, brother and friend. He was a man of deep faith and a joyful spirit—always laughing, quick with a story and offering a genuine kindness that made everyone he met feel instantly welcome.
Born September 26, 1957, in Whitehall, Barry was the son of the late Benedict and Rosemary (Kulig) Sosalla. He grew up in Whitehall and graduated from Whitehall High School in 1975. On August 3, 1991, he married Deanna Westaby-Shilts, beginning a beautiful 34-year marriage.
Barry dedicated 45 years of hard work as a milk tester for CRI. His job was much more than a career to him. He genuinely loved the farming community and the people he met on his routes. Many of those farmers became some of his closest, most cherished friends.
Above all, Barry loved God, his family and his friends. He lived life with enthusiasm, enjoying bowling, dart ball, playing cards, fishing and watching sports. His absolute favorite pastime was cheering on his beloved St. Louis Cardinals, and he cherished the many family road trips to watch them play.
He is deeply missed by his wife, Deanna; his daughters: Theresa (Greg) Hoffer of Stillwater, MN, and Ashleigh (Collin) Krawll of San Diego, CA; and his five treasured grandchildren: Tommy, Liam, Nyah, Keegan, and Lucas.
He is also survived by his siblings: Brian (Lois) Sosalla of Pardeeville, Debi Sosalla of Beaver Dam, Randy (Jorge) Sosalla of Whitehall, and Joseph Sosalla of Milwaukee; as well as Radek (Heather) Mista and their sons, Damian and Sebastian of Sarasota, FL, and Heather Bailey, all of whom hold a very special place in the family’s heart.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to St. Croix Hospice for the exceptional, tender care they provided to Barry during the final month of his life.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, August 6, 2026, with a visitation at 1:00 p.m., and the service starting at 2:00 p.m., at Calvary Baptist Church in Eau Claire, WI.
