I remember well the session at the Getaway that Bill and Rita refer to. A great moment and a treasured memory. When I pulled into Prince Willian for my first Getaway, in the middle of the night, rain coming down, not a light anywhere, this wee man appears out of the mist, and sez something to the effect of, "It's about time you got here, ya big lug, where ya been? I'm Barry". Thus started an immediate connection, kindred souls had met once more. Here is what I wrote about that on Facebook while the Cat was down:


I have walked a long and winding path, and I have met many great characters on that journey. In all those travels, across this land and others, there have been those rare few folks that immediately made a mark on me, and planted themselves firmly in my heart and my affections. Barry is one of those. I believe it is akin to two old souls crossing paths once more, in the eternal trek. He was irreverent, caring, talented, larger than life, and loving. He had been damaged by his life and healed stronger than before. His love of his family is legendary, and his love of his friends ran a close second, with music solidly in the third spot. It is good to have been part of your circle, old friend. See you when next our paths cross. Love, Mick


It is good Mudcat is back up. This place, after all, is the place that connected most of the names you see posting these wonderful rememberances. It is our community, my friends, please remember that. It is the source of great love and affection for us all from disparate parts of the world. Barry's life was greatly enriched by those he met here, and my life was enriched by knowing him from here. We must guard this precious thing.

I will miss you, lad, until I see you again.

Mick