Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)

Subject: Barry Finn in hospital
From: curmudgeon
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 03:13 PM

Barry Finn is in the hospital recovering from a mild heart attack. What he took for flu symptoms were disguised by his diabetes.

I talked with him about ten minutes ago and he's in relative good spirits. He expects to be there for a couple more days so we'll miss him at this weekend's sessions.

He is not really anxious for calls or visitors, thus good wishes should be posted here. Otherwise, PM me - Tom

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: RTim
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 03:16 PM

Hi All - and particularly to Barry!

Hope things go well - thinking of you and hope you get better soon.

Tim Radford

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: SINSULL
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 03:17 PM

He's not ready???? What about those of us who are about to have a heart attack? I really have to start hanging around with younger healthier friends.
Much love, Barry and Justine.
Your 2-bit whore.

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 03:19 PM

I just knew we would wear him out. I figured after the Getaway weekend he had he'da checked into a bed somwhere just the sleep for a few weeks!

Jeez, dude, you got to take better care of yourself! There are only TWO ends to every candle, my friend!!

Be well, and STAY well!

Dani

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Charley Noble
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 03:19 PM

Tom-

Thanks for telling us this. We (speaking for everyone) cherish Barry and I'm sure we're all relieved to hear that he's being well taken care of.

It's all to easy to ignore symptoms until it is too late. Remember that! I will.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Brian Peters
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 03:20 PM

All the very best, Barry!
Brian

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Dan Schatz
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 03:24 PM

You take care of yourself Barry. We need to and your voice healthy!

Dan

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 03:25 PM

Barry, I expect you to blow me away in a live performance when I finally get to see you. So please get and stay well.

You and me are supposed to sing together someday too.

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 03:30 PM

Get well my friend.

JM

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: stallion
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 03:35 PM

My dear friend we have some more festivals here to do, I had one it's damn scary, love you pal, get well soon
Pete
and the boys will want me to wish you well

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: My guru always said
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 03:43 PM

Thanks for posting this Tom, what a shock!!!

Barry Honey, it sounds like you're going to need to slow things down a little from now on. Living every second is fine, but you need to make sure you've got lots of them to live!!! Please look after yourself when they let you loose in the world again. Recover well...

Love to you & Justine from Us xx

Where's Nurse Ratched???

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: The Sandman
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 03:43 PM

get better.

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Amos
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 03:46 PM

Well, Mister Finn, this is a fine howdy do, I must say!! I expect you to pour your energy into full-bore, flat-out, no-holds-barred resting and recuperation, double quick. Get to it, sailor!! Don't stand there lollygagging or I'll sic a bevy of adoring wenches on your sorry ass.



A

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: MMario
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 04:08 PM

Hey Barry - you aren't trying to compete with 'Spaw, are you?

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: katlaughing
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 04:14 PM

Barry, I am not done fallin' in love...take care and get the heck outta there!:-)

luvyakat

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Tinker
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 04:15 PM

Dang.... after that late night escapade on the Jersey turnpike I figured you were good for a long lie in, but I figured it would be in comfy quaters at home...

Take care and we'll wait (impatiently) for others to keep us posted...

Hugs, Blessings and LLIght

tink

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: skarpi
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 04:17 PM

Barry good recovery and take care
thoughts and lights
all the best Skarpi Iceland

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: sciencegeek
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 04:22 PM

Hey, Barry... gotta take care of yourself.... and get back in shape for Mystic!

Rest & goggle up a mess of great songs to regale us with...:D Mike has set two dozen or so C Fox Smith poems to tunes that I know you'll get a kick out of.

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Fortunato
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 04:45 PM

tom,

please tell Barry I'm sorry to hear he's in the hospital and I hope he get's out of there soon and recovers fully.

I'll be thinking about him. He's a pal.

Chance

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: alanabit
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 04:48 PM

Wishing you a speedy recovery Barry. Look forward to having you back here.

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Janie
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 04:51 PM

Crap!

Heal well and completely, Dear.

Love and light to you and to Justine.

Janie

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: maeve
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 04:54 PM

Goodness gracious! I'll be looking forward to hearing from Tom that you are rested, recovered, and regaling the whole ward with song, Barry. Send word if you need any groundhog visits.

Warm regards,

maeve

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: M.Ted
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 05:03 PM

Take care of yourself, Barry, but get well, and back soon. It's awful quiet around here without you.

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Seamus Kennedy
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 05:14 PM

Barry - get well soon.
Is it possible that there's a 'Heart Attack Shanty' in thee somewhere?

Seamus

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: ClaireBear
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 06:29 PM

Barry me lad, take care!

You are a treasure, and we must not lose a single day of your maximum lifespan. And I''d say that even if I''d never heard you sing.

Love and strength to you and Justine. Get bettah!

Claire

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Linda Goodman Zebooker
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 06:32 PM

Barry, Best wishes and get well soon

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Genie
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 06:37 PM

Now, Amos, if yer gonna threaten Barry that you'll "sic a bevy of adoring wenches on your sorry ass" if he doesn't get well soon, he'll be in that hospital bed waaay too long.


Barry, I can't say I'm surprised that you overdid the late nights and long music sessions and drving and stuff, but I'm really sorry you ended up in the hospital.   Glad you survived the heart attack, though, and hope you'll take advantage of the situation to get some much needed rest.    Love and light and strength to you and yours, and please get well soon!

Genie

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Bill D
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 06:38 PM

awww...durn, Barry!

No pumping shanties for awhile, hear?

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Peace
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 06:50 PM

Best wishes for a complete recovery, Barry.

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Azizi
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 06:54 PM

I'm sending you positive vibrations, Barry.

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: ranger1
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 06:55 PM

Barry, get well soon.

Tami

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: jacqui.c
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 07:02 PM

Barry - you had better get yourself well soon mate or the Maineiacs will have to come visit, wanted or not! All my good thoughts coming your way melove.

Justine - take care of yourself dear. If there is anything that we can do please let us know.|

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Leadfingers
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 07:18 PM

Barry - get Well NOW !!

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Gorgeous Gary
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 08:37 PM

Yikes! Sorry to hear about your heart attack Barry. Best wishes and get well soon!

And come to think of it, wouldn't a pumping shanty actually be appropriate? Just a different fluid and a different rhythm... ;-)

-- Gary

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Alice
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 08:40 PM

Adding my good wishes to the list.
Have a fast recovery! Take care.

Alice

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Nancy King
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 08:47 PM

Yikes, Barry! This is just TOO scary! You're too familiar with hospitals to want to be there, so you'd better start being a bit more careful. Not to mention the fact that we need you whole and singing!

Much love to you and Justine,

Nancy

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: GUEST,Big Mick without a cookie
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 09:01 PM

Who gives a fair load of old shite what he wants???????? I will call the lad if I damn well feel like it! He ain't shittin' me, this is more of this old game to draw attention to his royal backside..... probably needs to jack up his CD sales.............. (sez Mick, tongue planted firmly in cheek).

Get well, you crusty old coot. This is what happens when I am absent and not there to take "care" of you...***chuckle***

And thanks to Tink for letting me know..... Love ya, baby.

All the best,

Mick

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Bobert
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 09:02 PM

Here's hopin for a speedy and full recovery, Barry, and next year stay away from the Getaway cafeteria...

Bobert

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: KathyW
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 09:09 PM

Barry, please get better soon!

Kathy

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: GUEST
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 09:29 PM

God Bless You Barry!!

Get well quickly and completely!

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: GUEST,Jed Marum
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 09:29 PM

Ooops - that was me above. Cookieless again!

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Jack Campin
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 09:33 PM

Might be worth getting the word out about what happened to Barry. I had a mild heart attack 2 months ago. It didn't feel like one - I'd been having chest pain for about three months, but thought it might be oesophageal spasms (I've had that for a long time, and occasional episodes of reflux). Or at worst angina. Then I got an attack that felt no worse than the previous ones, but wasn't brought on by exertion. Called an ambulance; the EMT guys did an ECG and it looked normal to them, but they took me into hospital anyway. Blood tests showed a mild heart attack.

They did a whole lot of investigations, but the clincher was the treadmill test, hooked up to an ECG. I didn't get very far on it before they called a halt. The nurse looked quite concerned, then asked if I was diabetic. From what the ECG was saying, I ought to have been curled up on the floor moaning, but I didn't feel much at all, just a bit tired and uncomfortable. This sort of masking of symptoms is common in diabetics, and also in women. Dunno why it happened to me, being neither.

The moral is, get chest pains looked at sooner rather than later. If I'd continued to ignore what was happening to me, I'd doubt if I'd have seen the year out. As it is, an angioplasty seems to have more or less sorted the problem.

Good luck, Barry.

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Micca
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 09:40 PM

Barry, Best wishes to you and Justine, Just do as your told, ok, and it will pass, like the Trinidad to Maracaibo run!!!You are in my thoughts you ol' reprobate.
Micca

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: bbc
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 09:44 PM

Thanks for sharing this news, Tom. Wow! Not what I wanted to hear. Barry, take good care of yourself. Lots of us want you well & happy!

love,

Barbara

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Severn
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 09:51 PM

The best of thoughts, prayers and wishes coming from me, as well.

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: catspaw49
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 10:18 PM

Okay Barry....this sucks, but you're experienced in docs and hospitals and know what to do......so do it!

Get back here soon.


Spaw

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Joe_F
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 10:31 PM

Oh. %^(

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Gibb Sahib
Date: 15 Oct 09 - 11:12 PM

Take care, Barry. Hope to have you back around again real soon.
Gibb

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: curmudgeon
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:31 PM

For those not on Facebook or other online groups, Barry sadly and unexpectedly passed away on Friday morning. The wake is today, and the funeral tomorrow. I'll post details momenraily. I hadn't expected to find Mudcat here = Tom

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: open mike
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:32 PM

Well, sorry to report that Barry did not make it.

Unfortunately this has to be changed to an OBIT thread.

The mudcat has been down for a few days and during that time he passed
away. You can find out more on the face book pages for Mudcat and on Barry's page, too.

Click (membership required)

http://www.facebook.com/BarryFinn?v=wall&ref=search

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:33 PM

Such sad news. Our love to Janine and the family.

Subject: Obit: Barry Finn October 16 2009
From: jacqui.c
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:33 PM

Our darling Barry died in hospital on Friday morning early.

There have bee a lot of posts onto Facebook but it is likely that some "Catters have not heard the news yet.

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: curmudgeon
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:34 PM

Barry Finn's wake will be in Derry, NH this Sunday at Peabody Funeral Home, 2 to 6. Mass on Monday, 10 AM, St Thomas Catholic Church.

Subject: RE: Barry Finn in hospital
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:37 PM

Hard to believe and accept this news. Barry was in usual fine voice at the Getaway.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn October 16 2009
From: jacqui.c
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:38 PM

Here's a link to the Facebook page.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn October 16 2009
From: Charley Noble
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:40 PM

From Justine Donovan (copied from FaceBook)

To all of Barry's good friends - Barry passed away peacefully yesterday morning at the Elliot Hospital in Manchester. He had attended the Press Room session on Friday night and felt very tired afterwards. Over the next few days he experienced what everyone thought were signs of a stomach bug. On Wednesday morning my daughter drove him to the hospital and we were all shocked to learn he had suffered a heart attack earlier in the week. He was being kept in the hospital for further testing when he died.

The nurses reported that Barry had asked for ice chips at about 6:15 and that moments after his heart simply slowed to a stop. They were not able to revive him and we believe that it was swift and painless. I hope this fact brings some comfort to you, as it did to our family. Marty's post above is accurate, and if you refer to it you can find the details for the services. You are welcome to our home after the funeral services on Monday. Your posts are appreciated and welcomed. Barry and I were married twenty three years and have two amazing children; Natalie, 22 and Gabriel, 20. We will miss him for the rest of our lives and reach out to you to help us keep his memory alive.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn October 16 2009
From: Alice
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:41 PM

It is hard to know what to say. I was shocked when I read the news on Friday, as it seemed like we were giving him cheery get well wishes in the hospital thread, as he would recover. My sympathy to his family, friends and all who loved him. I felt like I knew Barry from years of mudcat discussions and personal messages. Take care. - Alice

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn
From: Jeri
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:46 PM

From The Peabody Funeral Home's site:

Barry P. Finn, 58, of Derry, NH died Friday October 16, 2009 at the Elliot Hospital, Manchester, NH. Barry was born on February 5, 1951 in Boston, MA a son of Elizabeth (Barry) Bent and the late Eugene Finn. A Derry resident for the last 22 years, he was formerly of Mission Hill, MA and Brookline, MA.

He is survived by his wife Justine Donovan of Derry; his daughter, Natalie Finn and his son, Gabriel Finn, both of Derry; his mother, Elizabeth Bent of W. Dennis, MA; two brothers, Daniel Bent of Walpole, MA and Earl Moore of N.H.; one sister, Cheryl Finn-Poole of Carlisle, MA. He also leaves behind countless friends in and out of the music community.

Calling hours will be held Sunday October 18th from 2 - 6pm in the Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch St., Derry. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, October 19th at 11:30am in St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Crystal Ave., Derry with cremation following. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the New England Organ Bank, One Gateway Center, Newton, MA 02158.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn October 16 2009
From: skarpi
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:47 PM

RIP Barry ,
I once sang a song called " forget me never " I did not do much
at the getaway then , but there were some people who had more loudness
than other s hee hee and you were among them .

I only saw you for one weekend 2005 , thanks for let me know you .
Tonight I will light a candle , not just for Barry and his family
also for a friend of mine who lost his wife this same week .

what we have today , we may not have tomorrow . take care all


May god be with us all .

All the best from Iceland
Skarpi .

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: My guru always said
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:53 PM

So shocked and saddened, candle lit for Barry. Our heartfelt sympathies to Justine with love & hugs!
Hil & Richard xxx

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Charley Noble
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:54 PM

Just to reinforce Jeri's post above with regard to the funeral service time on Monday:

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, October 19th at 11:30 am in St. Thomas Aquinas Church.

And the time originally posted in FaceBook was later corrected from "10 am" to "11:30 am."

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: SINSULL
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:55 PM

Barry,
You were sorely missed at the Press Room last night. Rest in peace my beautiful friend.
Mary

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Janie
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:56 PM

At last. We can have a proper Mudcat Wake.

I keep waiting to see "Sorry for the huge mistake and alarm - that was another Barry Finn who died."

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Rasener
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 12:58 PM

Very sorry to hear this. My deepest sympathies to Barry's family.

RIP Barry

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: jacqui.c
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 01:00 PM

I've just had the heads up that those not on Facebook can't access the page via the link given. At the request of one such person, and wit apologies for such a long cut and paste, here's the content of that link.

Post #1
Jeri Corlew wroteon October 16, 2009 at 6:42am
Barry passed away this morning. I don't have any details. Barry was in hospital recovering from what appeared to have been a mild heart attack.

I don't know when Mudcat will be back up and I thought his friends would want to know.



Post #2
Siân Thomas (Wales) wroteon October 16, 2009 at 7:20am
This is a complete shock.

My condolences to his family and all who loved him.

sian

   

Post #3
Rose Sheehan (Boston, MA) wroteon October 16, 2009 at 7:23am
Thanks for posting, Jeri - so shocking, so sad.


Post #4
Hazel Bolton wroteon October 16, 2009 at 8:19am
Another bound for the great singaround in the sky.

"When we meet again there'll be such singing
When we meet again we'll set the heaven's ringing
We'll raise our voice in harmony and roll the years away
When we meet again some day"

RIP Barry


Post #5
Catherine Jayne Pettigrew (London) wroteon October 16, 2009 at 8:35am
This is such sad news. I met Barry in 2005 and he was a lovely man with a fantastic voice.

Condolences to his family

Khatt x


Post #6
You wroteon October 16, 2009 at 8:37am
I'm speechless.


Post #7
Jeri Corlew wroteon October 16, 2009 at 9:16am
I'm having a hard time believing that he's gone. He was just here at last Friday's session

Barry was larger than life on the outside. Once you got past the outer layers, you realized he was Barry all the way through.

      
Post #8
Tamara Hiatt wroteon October 16, 2009 at 9:49am
I don't know what to say. I was so looking forward to meeting him some day. Wishing peace and comfort to his family and friends.


Post #9
Allison Aldrich (Concord, NH) wroteon October 16, 2009 at 10:38am
What a shock. What a kind man. He and I first bonded thru Mudcat and then through having kids with disabilities; my heart goes out to Justine and the kids.


Post #10
Jane Gilday wroteon October 16, 2009 at 10:48am
Oh no! This is so sad and after he made such a recovery a few years back. We met him at the Getaway in 2005. One of the best!


Post #11
Claire Beorn Norman wroteon October 16, 2009 at 10:58am
Tears flow like rain.

Oh he don't want a harp nor a halo, not he --
Just give him a breeze and a good rolliing sea.

So sorry.

ClaireBear



Post #12
Mary Jane Endres wroteon October 16, 2009 at 11:26am
Please, no. I don't want to believe this.

Janie



Post #13
Dani Black wroteon October 16, 2009 at 1:21pm
speechless. more later. my heart just aches for his family, and the large circle of dear friends he gathered around him.

I'm holding those precious few memories from the Getaway the other week like talismans, pebbles I'm wearing smooth...



Post #14
Mike Gibson wroteon October 16, 2009 at 2:21pm
i met him when visiting the states four yrs back and again when he came to sidmouth a great loss



Post #15
Nathan Tompkins (Portland, OR) wroteon October 16, 2009 at 2:23pm
Oh man...I didn't know him...but I have always enjoyed his posts....

My condolences to those who did know him...he seemed like a good man.



Post #16
Mary Jane Endres wroteon October 16, 2009 at 4:04pm
Jeri, given all the leaves on the trees and at least some more snow predicted, Mudcat could be out a good bit longer. If so, might it be possible to send you or some one else a message to get an address for Justine to send condolences?



Post #17
Nancy L. King (Washington, DC) wroteon October 16, 2009 at 4:33pm
The address for Barry on the Getaway attendees list (plus a little help from a zip code directory) is 4 Summit Ave., Derry, NH 03038. Presumably the address is the same for Justine.

I'm trying to figure out what I might say to her. This is so devastating! I saw both of them at the Portsmouth festival just 3 weeks ago.


Post #18
Lorcan Otway (New York, NY) wroteon October 16, 2009 at 5:17pm
Holding all of his, and ours who knew and loved him, (the same thing) in the light... dear fellow...



Post #19
Mary Jane Endres wroteon October 16, 2009 at 5:19pm
Thanks Nancy.



Post #20
Linn Schulz (Concord, NH) wroteon October 16, 2009 at 7:01pm
Right -- that's the address for Barry and Justine and family. It's just totally unreal. Tom spoke with him yesterday. I had Barry songs in my head all day. What a frustrating time for Mudcat to be down.


Post #21
Alice Flynn wroteon October 16, 2009 at 7:15pm
I'm shocked. This is hard to believe. I'm so sorry to hear this news.



Post #22
Mary Jane Endres wroteon October 16, 2009 at 7:17pm
Right, Linn. Just like him to steal off when Mudcat is down, and we need our community wrapped around us to share our memories and sorrow.



Post #23
Leo Pola wroteon October 16, 2009 at 7:23pm
This was the last hting I expected to see on FAcebook tonight. What a loss. What a man to have lost.


Post #24
Rose Sheehan (Boston, MA) wroteon October 16, 2009 at 7:24pm
I am passing along the following info: Barry Finn's wake will be in Derry, NH this Sunday at Peabody Funeral Home, 2 to 6. Mass on Monday, 10 AM, St Thomas Catholic Church.

   

Post #25
Amos Jessup wroteon October 16, 2009 at 7:57pm
Just flapping in the wind trying to fill the hole this leaves in my heart; never a better or fuller man, bigger heart or firmer voice ever walked these halls. Damn, damn, damn, damn....



Post #26
Ken Schatz (NYU) wroteon October 16, 2009 at 9:37pm
Barry, you're singing loud in my head and in my heart. I am so proud to know you and the joy of singing with you. I'm grateful for all that you have shared with me, and I'm very lucky to call you my singing partner and good friend. You've inspired me so much! I've got my work cut out for me. We will all miss you fiercely. And we'll do our best. All my love to Justine and family, and to Neil, and to everyone who knew and loved this amazing man and his amazing voice.



Post #27
Tamara Hiatt wroteon October 16, 2009 at 10:20pm
Maybe Mudcat is down because it is in mourning. Maybe nature rails in winter tears at the loss.

I too wish to be in Mudcat to read his past thoughts and to read the thoughts and feelings of his friends.

Just too sad.



Post #28
Tamara Hiatt wroteon October 17, 2009 at 1:54am
Loads of lovely tributes on his Facebook page.

http://www.facebook.com/BarryFinn?ref=search&sid=1577167692.231825208..1#/BarryFinn?v=wall&ref=search

Nothing on the Finn and Haddie website
http://www.finnandhaddie.com/

or their MySpace
http://www.myspace.com/finnandhaddie


Post #29
Mick Lane wrote23 hours ago
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



Post #30
Amos Jessup wrote23 hours ago
" I am standing upon the seashore. A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean. She is an object of beauty and strength. I stand and watch her until at length she hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and sky come to mingle with each other.

Then someone at my side says: "There, she is gone!"

"Gone where?"

Gone from my sight. That is all. She is just as large in mast and hull and spar as she was when she left my side and she is just as able to bear her load of living freight to her destined port.

Her diminished size is in me, not in her. And just at the moment when someone at my side says: "There, she is gone!" there are other eyes watching her coming and other voices ready to take up the glad shout: "Here she comes!"

And that is dying...."

Henry Van Dyke


Barry--

May the breeze be on your quarter, and fair for your course. You leave so many bonds and are sent off with so many tears for the missing of your keen laugh, bold song, and those piercing eyes full of depth, humor, love, and something else indefinably You. You, huge soul, sail on, and remember us that you sang with, as we will remember you, until the next meeting in song.

Sad though I am beyond saying that you have stepped away from this turgid coil, I delight in your freedom, and knowing your songs are now filling the cosmos from star to star.

Fair winds, and good sailing.

Amos

Post #31
Carol Dale wrote22 hours ago
Dear Barry,

I'm sorry you had to go so soon. You were a giant of a man, and a man of immense personal integrity. The Mudcat will be greatly diminished by your absence. You were unfailingly kind, and you were a stalwart comrade in arms in the fight for justice and human rights for all. I will miss you.



Post #32
Rose Sheehan (Boston, MA) wrote22 hours ago
Here is updated/corrected info on services for Barry:

Marty Stock For Barry Finn: Calling hours will be held Sunday October 18th from 2-6PM in the Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch St., Derry, NH. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celeb...rated Monday, October 19th at 11:30AM in St. Thomas Aquinas Churc...h, Crystal Ave., Derry with cremation following. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the New England Organ Bank, One Gateway Center, Newton, MA 02158. For more information or to send a condolence, please visit www.peabodyfuneralhome.com



Post #33
Jeddy Rose wrote21 hours ago
i am so sorry for anyone who knew him, i never had the pleasure but my thoughts are with all his friends and family.

may the great mother of all be watching over him and those he loved but had to leave behind.

lots of love to all

jade x x x



Post #34
Abby Zurschmiede (Tallahassee, FL) wrote20 hours ago
Farewell to Barry Finn. Wish I had met you and had a song. I admired your politics a great deal.


Oh, wrap me in my country's flag, and lay me in the cold blue sea
Let the roaring of the waves, my solemn requiem be
And I shall sleep a pleasant sleep, while storms above their vigils keep
My Captain brave shall read for me, the s...ervice of the silent dead
And yay shall lower me in the waves, when all the prayers are said
And I will find my long, long home, among the billows and the foam
Farewell my friends for many a league, we've sailed together on the deep
Come let us shake our hands, I'll sail no more, but shipmates wear for weep
I'm bound above, my course is run
I near the port, my voyage is done

(traditional sea song)



Post #35
Mary Jane Endres wrote19 hours ago
While I am grateful that there are a large number of us on Facebook, and to have this group in the absence of Mudcat, I really long for all of our Mudcat community to be able to come together on Mudcat right now.



Post #36
Laurel Paulson-Pierce (Chico, CA) wrote17 hours ago
here he is..singing...the way i like to remember him.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aitT45oZuT8&NR=1



Post #37
Mary Jane Endres wrote17 hours ago
Thanks for putting that up Laurel, as well as the Getaway 2008 video with he and Mick. They were so funny that night at the Getaway. It was well into the wee hours - probably somewhere around 3:00 or 3:30am. Most of the crew in the Peace lodge had gone off to bed, and I was thinking of doing the same, when in blew one of them....I forget who showed up 1st, but I think it was Big Mick, with Barry blowing in a few minutes later. Trading insults and fussing affectionately with one another like an old married couple....and they then proceded to put on this wonderful show for the few of us still standing, of which this song was just one example.



Post #38
Jeri Corlew wrote16 hours ago
Obit and some info here: http://currentobituary.com/ShowObit.aspx?id=70120&member_id=11 says:
---------------------------------------------------
Barry P. Finn, 58, of Derry, NH died Friday October 16, 2009 at the Elliot Hospital, Manchester, NH. Barry was born on February 5, 1951 in Boston, MA a son of Elizabeth (Barry) Bent and the late Eugene Finn. A Derry resident for the last 22 years, he was formerly of Mission Hill, MA and Brookline, MA.

He is survived by his wife Justine Donovan of Derry; his daughter, Natalie Finn and his son, Gabriel Finn, both of Derry; his mother, Elizabeth Bent of W. Dennis, MA; two brothers, Daniel Bent of Walpole, MA and Earl Moore of N.H.; one sister, Cheryl Finn-Poole of Carlisle, MA. He also leaves behind countless friends in and out of the music community.

Calling hours will be held Sunday October 18th from 2 - 6pm in the Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch St., Derry. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, October 19th at 11:30am in St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Crystal Ave., Derry with cremation following. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the New England Organ Bank, One Gateway Center, Newton, MA 02158.


Post #39
Mary Jane Endres wrote16 hours ago
DO NOT open or click anything from me (it might only appear in the notifications box on the lower right of the screen, next to chat) that says I sent you a 1 minute video. It is a malicious application resulting from a survey my son answered, which hijacked his friend's list. When I clicked it, thinking it was from my son, it hijacked my list also.

I'm posting this everywhere on Facebook that I can. Sorry to interject this into Barry's thread.


Post #40
Tamara Hiatt wrote2 hours ago
Last night at Billybob's Barden in the Garden party which featured The Barden of England) and Waddon Pete, I sang a spiritual trilogy as tribute to Barry.
Oh Freedom, Come and Go With Me, and I'm On My Way.

I did not know the man personally, but I have been so affected by his passing, which has been comopunded by the lack of proper Mudcat and even more so upon seeing his performances on Youtube. What a presence.

Go with power, peace and joy, Barry.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Amos
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 01:00 PM

Days after the news first appeared on one of his YouTube videos from the Getaway as a comment, and I am still ringing in my brain with the impossibility of that good heart being gone from us. I am grateful to hear it was evidently a smooth escape with minimal turbulence, for he deserves an easy sail to more open waters. I can say this much, Barry: I am warmed and grateful to know you and I shared the path for a short way, and you always made things better for your being present. Thanks, mate.


A

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 01:03 PM

Facebook isn't the best place to carry on a typical Mudcat discussion. We'd distress and startle the rest of our friends, wouldn't we? But when this news came out I was struck with the craving to have Mudcat in place to read the stories people will tell about this wonderful singer. I never met him, but I have listened to stories, have chatted with him on various Mudcat topics, and thoroughly enjoyed the videos Amos posted this year.

My condolences to his friends and family.

SRS

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Jeri
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 01:17 PM

That poem about the person just being in the next room? This all has the feeling that Barry stepped out to check the weather and the door accidentally slammed shut behind him. It's not real.
There was no sadness leading up to his death, there was no foreshadowing. I'll miss him like crazy, but aside from that big hole in the universe, I'm not that sad. I keep imagining things through Barry's Irish sense of humor, which is why something on that Peabody Funeral Home page stuck me as completely, and inappropriately, funny. I can imagine sharing the comments with Barry, and I know he'd laugh.

And at the sing yesterday, I could imagine I'd turn my head and see him sitting there with his diet cola.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Banjiman
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 01:17 PM

We're so sad to hear this. We only met Barry this year when he was in the UK for Seafest, we had a good sing......we just knew we were going to really like the guy. We were looking forward to his return next year.

Deepest condolences to his family and close friends.

Paul & Wendy Arrowsmith

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 01:19 PM

He will always fill our hearts with joy, holding all who knew and loved him (the same thing) in the light, Lorcan

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: InOBU
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 01:20 PM

THe above from Inobu, (Lorcan)

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Brakn
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 01:21 PM

Sad news. RIP

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Charley Noble
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 01:22 PM

Some verses from one of my old songs, "Pastures of Memories," that are running through my head today:

Waves of time drift slowly by,
Now I'm sailing with the tide,
Through misty islands in the morn,
I keep a sharp lookout.

But that pirate ship of yesterday,
Now she lies beneath the waves,
Her timbers buried in the mud,
Where can her captain be?

Now, our time is drawing near,
The farthest shore is becoming clear;
So trim the sail, make fast the sheet,
We've old friends we'd like to meet;
They'll welcome us upon the shore,
And join us in this song.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: stallion
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 01:22 PM

My life was the better for knowing you sunshine, so sad you left us with so many things we still had left to do.
Had a dream last night, Barry was leaving through a door saying " I'm going on ahead I'll see ya on the 7th" very spooky.
I will miss him
Peter

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: MoorleyMan
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 01:33 PM

Oh, such sad tidings.
With the Cat being down for a few days, I'd not heard the news.

What a shock. Tho' I'd heard and rated his CD, I'd only actually come to meet Barry "in the flesh" for the first time this year too, also at Seafest, and what an impressive guy, a fantastic singer whom it was a privilege to join voices with, and a really nice chap. He was so enthusiastic, so knowledgable, so full of life, joie-de-vivre, call it what you will but he had it all in spades. And I too was so looking forward to his next visit to the UK.

My sincere condolences and sympathies to his family and everyone who knew him.

RIP Barry.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Brian Peters
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 01:34 PM

Very shocked to see the 'Obit' added to the thread title. I met Barry several times on my trips to the US and, apart from his great singing, I was impressed by his down-to-earth lack of pretentiousness, warmth and directness. The same qualities always came through in his Mudcat posts. I'm sure he will be sorely missed by the community over there.
Brian

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Bill D
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 01:35 PM

I have never met a singer who sang with such power & intensity when a song was 'big', and with such gentleness when it was needed.

Rita & I have been remembering 'Barry stories' for 2 days, and we will get some posted as we can.
   Barry stayed here overnight a few years ago, and rode to the Getaway with me...and he was such a delight to just TALK to. Then he met his many other friends for the weekend and continuously amazed us all with the variety and power of the songs he sang.
At one point, someone started a song, and Barry NEEDED a bohdran to play, and not having one, he grabbed a metal folding chair to add the needed rhythm! Mick, seeing his problem, ran to his truck and fetched a REAL drum, and....more music was made.

What a wealth of living Barry crammed into his all-too-short time with us.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: gnu
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 01:38 PM

We had words a few times, but always managed to sort it and mutually apologize. Glad we did. RIP Barry.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: RTim
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 01:44 PM

I posted the following on Facebook -
For my friend Barry Finn -
"One thought ever at the fore - That in the Divine Ship, the World, breasting Time and Space, All peoples of the globe together sail, sail the same voyage, are bound to the same destination." (Walt Whitman)

Tim Radford (who could not be at todays wake, but wish he was)

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Charlie Baum
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 02:00 PM

Barry had such joie de vivre, it's impossible to imagine a world without him.
He lived a short life, but a good-ending one--I can only hope the last couple of weeks of my life are filled with the kind of joy and life he had in his last couple of weeks, from high school class reunions and Getaways to Press Room shanty sings. He was a joy to talk with, a joy to listen to, a joy to know. In my head, on my private memory channel, I'm listening to him singing "Sioux Indians," at the 2008 Getaway.

I'll sing you a song, though it may be a sad one,
Of trials and troubles and where first begun;
I left my dear fam'ly, my friends and my home,
To cross the wide mountains and deserts to roam.

--Charlie

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Ferrara
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 02:02 PM

I met Barry the first time he came to an FSGW Getaway. (1998? Can't remember.) I was program director and I think he and Roger in Baltimore led Prison Work Songs that first year. We got along fine – who could not like Barry? – but we really got to know each other while he was waiting for his first liver transplant. I had been through the whole thing, waiting for my heart transplant, and we had a lot to talk about.

The year he had that transplant, Barry and Joe Offer stayed at our place Thursday before the Getaway. Joe and Barry talked until the wee hours. Next morning Joe and Bill slept in. Barry and I talked for hours at the kitchen table about our lives, our families, our struggles with ADD, our transplants, politics, the universe, and everything. Tears were pouring down Barry's face as we talked. Partly it was the poignancy of the things we were talking about, but mostly his tears were due to the prednisone, which has funny effects on people's emotions (I won't discuss what it did to mine!). We could laugh, even while he cried, because we'd both been through it.

Joe drove me to Camp Ramblewood while Barry rode with Bill. Joe and I got lost and took 3 hours but were having so much fun we didn't mind the crazy drive.

My favorite memory of Barry is from that Getaway. Saturday night Barry and Big Mick were hanging out, Mick was singing an Irish song with guitar accompaniment. Barry picked up a metal chair and used the flat part like a bodhran. Sounded pretty good, too. So Mick went to the car and got his bodhran for Barry. I had no idea – none! – that a bodhran was such an incredible instrument. Barry caressed and coaxed and fine-tuned that drum as subtly as someone playing a violin. He varied the strokes, the rhythms, the pitch, moving around the bodhran for various effects and sounds. I was in awe of all this. I thought he and Mick looked like a lean black wolf hanging out with a Saint Bernard. They were continually insulting each other and enjoyed it immensely.

We loved Barry for so many reasons. His convictions and willingness to speak out; his intense involvement with life; his courage and determination to make the most of all life had to offer; his sense of humor and sly remarks; his obvious devotion to his family; and of course his incredible musical talent. More than talent, Barry had such a deep involvement with music that I was awed. I was very influenced in my singing by Barry. He knew wonderful songs from all genres and when he sang, the rest of the world would just go away and he was deep inside the song.

This year at the Getaway I told him I thought he was singing the best I'd ever heard him.   I'm grateful that we had the chance to see Barry - and hear him – there.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Ferrara
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 02:07 PM

"Sioux Indians" was one of my favorites of his songs. He sang it at the Sunday ballad workshop this year. First time he came to a Getaway, he was at the ballad workshop (I think he also sang "Sioux Indians" then) and said he loved ballads, mostly American ones, but hadn't had a place to sing them for years.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 02:11 PM

I posted this on the Facebook thread for Barry.
It is a tribute from late lamented great shantyman, to another.

Wishing you a snug berth Barry.

John

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Gibb Sahib
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 02:13 PM

Stunned. And I selfishly thought I'd have many more years to learn from this amazing artist. So sorry, RIP Barry.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Maryrrf
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 02:22 PM

I agree with Rita - I so enjoyed Barry's version of Sioux Indians at the Getaway. It was one of the highlights for me. I never imagined it would be the last Getaway I'd see Barry at. He was one of those people you like as soon as you meet him - there was a warmth and down to earth quality that is rare and special- he had it in spades. I was just remembering year before last at the Getaway when Severn had brought some steamed crabs and I sat with Sev, Joe Offer and Barry while they picked out the crab meat and savored every last morsel. It was one of those "Getaway" moments where the feeling of being among friends is so strong. I will miss him on Mudcat, and there'll never be a Getaway where he won't be missed.   

I'm glad Mudcat is back up. When I learned of Barry's death, I needed my Mudcat family.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Wolfgang
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 02:47 PM

Coming back to Mudcat after a vacation, this is the first thread I see. Barry just seemed to be always there, from my very first Mudcat days on. Friendly, helpful, knowledgeable. I've lost a friend I have never met.

Wolfgang

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Barnacle Babe
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 02:48 PM

Just ran into Tim at lunch time and heard the news or the rumor. I ran up here as fast as I could to sort it all out hoping it wasn't true. I knew I could find out on mudcat so thank you all for providing a safe place.

Rick Spencer said to me last year, "You're among royalty here" at the Sea Music Festival, pointing to Heather Wood, the Hugills,the Clancy Legacy, Bob Webb, the Johnson Girls, and so many others. Barry, you are royalty. You are a great musician but always made me, the newbie of the Barnacle group, feel warmly welcomed whether we were performing in Mystic or at NEFFA or in New City, NY. You set me, the shy one, at ease with your warm smile and friendship.

I will greatly miss you and was looking forward to seeing you at the next gig.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Janie
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 03:06 PM

I posted the following to Barry's Facebook page:

"Barry, when I showed up with Dani at my first Getaway I had not sung with people, and rarely by myself, for almost 20 years, and had never been on Mudcat. Your kindness and encouragement of me and many others over the years, to let ourselves sing, and join our voices in song together, was a gift beyond measure. You were ever a passionate champion of social justice, and of me when I waded into the fray on Mudcat threads about poverty, mental illness, and disability. One of the few there who I knew knew the realities and respected the lives, struggles and resiliency of folks just trying to survive. At my own low points when I have wondered about the efficacy of my life as a social worker, you offered validation and an occasional kick in the pants to keep me going. The tears are starting to flow again....You are not gone, you live in the hearts and minds of so many...."

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Jean(eanjay)
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 03:18 PM

Such sad and unexpected news. Barry wrote some brilliant posts here. My sympathies to his family.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 03:32 PM

link to Barry's posts.

http://mudcat.org/usersearch.cfm?who=Barry%20Finn

What can I say? I missed out on meeting a legend.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: ranger1
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 03:33 PM

I have spent the past two days listening to my Finn and Haddie CD to and from work and at work. I introduced one of the kids from the Maine Coservation Corps to Barry's singing today, and Gerry wants his own Finn and Haddie CD now.

Barry, my friend, thank you for making my world a sunnier place. May you have fair winds and a following sea on your way to wherever.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: ard mhacha
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 03:41 PM

A sad loss, always read his posts,to his nearest and dearest my deepest sympathy.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: katlaughing
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 03:42 PM

That's the way I felt about his postings on politics and social justice, too, Janie. Meaning nothing but compliments, one of my first thoughts was Mudcat has lost its "Barney Franks," i.e. most ardent, outspoken champion of just folks...the downtrodden, etc. What I loved about Barry, the Far Left of Liberal which he called himself, was just that and that he never, ever backed down and always called it like he saw it which was the way I usually saw it, too. When I felt I'd lost my writing voice for such frays, he was always there. Recently I was so taken with one of his postings, I teased him about falling in love. I teased him early on in this thread, too, when it sounded as if he was okay.

I saw him singing for the first time this year when various videos were put on youtube. I had heard how amazing he was, but nothing prepared me for the impact of that smallish body opening up that incredible FULL sound..and him being so completely into it. I regret I never had a chance to meet him and sing even a smidgen with him.

My deepest condolences to Justine and family as well as to their friends and to all of our Mudcat family.

Friend now our meeting is over
Friend we must part,
And if I never see you any more
I will love you in my heart.

And we'll land on the shore
Yes, we'll land on the shore
And, we'll land on the shore
And be safe forever more.

Fare well, Barrydarlin'

luvyakat

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Dan Schatz
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 03:44 PM

I'm still in shock.

The first time I met Barry, he told me at a Getaway that the sea chantey I was singing wasn't a real chantey (it was). The next time I met him was at a Mudcat sing at his house. He came up to me and said, "Hi, I'm the guy who obnoxiously told you that your chantey wasn't real." I had so much respect for that - it takes courage to be that self-aware, to remember something like that years later, and to clear the air.

But the moments I will treasure the most are the times, every time - he sang You Wouldn't Know It To Look At Me. It was and is one of the most heartfelt songs I've ever heard.

We'll miss you Barry.

Dan

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 04:03 PM

It was Saturday Night of the Getaway, traditionally the "Big Night" of staying up til the crack of dawn. A dozen of us were in Peace cabin at about 2:30 and Barry comes in and joins the singing, with big grin and wide eyes. We had been doing ballads and mountain music, and Barry was singing along. There was a pause, and I asked him if he'd do a shanty.
With the usual gusto, Barry launched his song, and we all joined in the refrain, soon stomping our feet in time. It was the kind of injection of energy we needed to keep us going for the next two hours. After he finished, I caught him nodding once, and then waking up to sing along, ready for bed but unwilling to give up yet. Sometime later I looked for him, and he was just gone and nobody had seen him slip away.
That's the way I feel now Barry. Thanks for staying with us as long as you did. I really don't know whether you went off for some peaceful sleep, or maybe just another sing in some other cabin.

Farewell, Pal.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Ferrara
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 04:05 PM

Dan thanks for posting the link to You Wouldn't Know It To Look At Me.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Bobert
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 04:42 PM

First time I've been able to pull up Mudcat inseveral days but...

...geeze, what a kick in the teeth...

I knew Barry more form his left-of-center posting here at Mudcat than in real life... Met him fir the first time last year... What a powerful and emotional folk singer...

What a terrible loos...

My thoughts and prayers go out to his family during these difficult times...

I guess tghe only silver lining is that Heaven has gained one heck of a man and one heck of a folkie...

RIP, my friend,

Bobert

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Janie
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 04:52 PM

Being from the landlocked and nearly entirely Caucasian state of West Virginia, I had never heard a shanty or a work song sung.   Barry was my introduction to both of those, plus my first real, live New England accent. When he opened his mouth to sing, and that passionate voice came out of the mouth that little squirrelly feller Dani had just introduced me to, my mouth must have dropped open. One could not listen to, and certainly not both listen and watch Barry sing, and not viserally comprehend the nature of the lives and work of the people from these songs originally sprung.

From conversations with Barry, as well as his postings on Mudcat, I know a bit about where and how he came up. But I never got the story of how a boy from the projects in Boston found his way to shanties and worksongs and love of the lore of the same.    Can anyone share what they know about the journey that brought him to his music?

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Susanne (skw)
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 04:54 PM

This is awful! I was about to post a 'get well' message when the Mudcat closed down for three days.

Barry was one of the (sometimes all too few) sane and knowledgeable voices on Mudcat. I always came away from his posts feeling I'd learned something - sometimes simply some basic humanity. I can only say what has been said before: Barry, you'll be missed, not just by your family and friends, who have my sympathy, but by so many friends who never had a chance to meet you. RIP.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Lizzie Cornish 1
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 04:55 PM

Barry, I'll miss your wonderful humour, your powerful voice, your joy, your so often brilliant posts...and your compassion. You were always so kind to me and I'll never forget that, ever.   

I have this terrible feeling of loss inside me at the moment, have had since I heard the sad news from Joe this morning.

You were a man who touched many people.

Thank you for your kindness and compassion...and I'll miss you very much.

Lizzie x





Finn & Haddie Myspace

Barry and Neil singing 'The Yangtze River' on Youtube, from their main site

Barry at the 2009 Getaway singing 'The Banks of the Callow'

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Steve Dawes & Helen Pitt
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 04:56 PM

What sad news to hear. We only met Barry once - at Scarborough Seafest this year, but he made a great impression. A lovely singer and a wonderful, warm, knowledgeable man. We shared an impromtu singaround with him on the pier at Midnight - official proceedings were over, but we just wanted to carry on singing! We were very much looking forward to seeing him again next year - I know there was talk of booking him at some of our local venues. Our sympathies go to his family and friends. I'm sure he will be much missed by many people.

Helen & Steve

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: kendall
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 05:01 PM

These last two years have been very hard for most of us. We have lost:
Utah Phillips
Sandy Paton Folk Legacy records
Sandy Ives Professor of folk lore U of M.
John Murphy New Brunswick, member of Hal 'n Tow.
Mary LaMarca. Dear sweet Mary.
And now, Barry Finn.
How much more can we take?

I keep reminding myself that whenever I walk away from a friend there is too good a chance that it is the last time I will see them.
There is that old saying, "Never let the sun set on an argument."

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Lizzie Cornish 1
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 05:02 PM

Dan, I hope you don't mind, but I've posted the words of Barry's from your link above, in case some folks can't access it.

I've been trying to think of these words all day long. I remember when Barry posted them, ages back now....

Thank you so much for putting that link in.


YOU WOULDN'T KNOW IT TO LOOK AT ME
(Barry Finn)

"You're not listening to me. Are you deaf in both ears?
Don't you see what you've caused? Have you been blind all these years?
Could you just give an answer, so I know you're not dumb?
For Christ's sake, you bird brain, has a cat got your tongue?"

Cho: I'm as cute as any other kid. I can run, jump and shout.
You wouldn't know it to look at me. At times, I can't work things out.
I'm not stupid. I'm not lazy. I try very hard.
With a little compassion, I could go pretty far.

Well, school is a torture. The teasing won't quit.
My thoughts go off track and my aide has a fit.
There are some things I excel in, so much that I'm bored.
You wouldn't know it to look at me. It takes all that I'm worth.

The kids scorn and laugh at me. I don't have a friend.
You can feel my heart break. I wonder when this will end.
The mistreatment and abuse I take, it's really a crime,
But I'm told to ignore it, though it happens all of the time.

I know it's hard on my family. I can't change a thing.
The aunts and uncles blame it on my folks and say it's poor upbringing.
The love and affection others get all the time,
I only hear people yell at me, when I ask, "Where is mine?"

I never feel comfort, no shoulder, no hug.
A system to support me was pulled out like a rug.
If you can't understand this, you may be worse off than me,
But I won't hold it against you, 'cause you're deaf and can't see.

I may be mildly autistic or just plain O. C. D.
I may twitch with Tourette's, or have A. D. D.
If you see me cross my eyes, instead of my T's,
You wouldn't know it to look at me that I have special needs.

Words, (c) Barry Finn, 1998.
Tune, traditional Australian, "One Of The Has Beens."

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: EBarnacle
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 05:03 PM

Lady Hillary and I will miss him terribly. I first met Barry at Mystic, too many years ago to recall exactly when. He was always comfortable to be with.

When I ran events, he was always willing, whether or no there was money for the event.

He lent his knowledge and scholarship to many fora and was a link, as was Stan to many of "the ones who had been there." He collected and shared their information with the rest of us along with his bawdy wit and humor.

As the tide goes out, I think of him and recall comment from a friend of mine a few days ago: Too many of my friends are dying of a sudden.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Dan Schatz
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 05:11 PM

Kendall, I'm right there with you. Add Mike Seeger to that list, too. And Kaelan Paton - a double loss, that one. We've been hit way too hard, and I'm ready for folks to go on living for awhile, thank you very much.

Dan

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: kendall
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 05:29 PM

"I see that old tyrant approaching,
That cruel remorseless old foe
And I lift up me glass in his honor
Take a drink with old Rosin the Beau.

Barry, my friend, I am lifting a glass of Glen Fiddich in your honor!

Subject: Lyr Add: SHIVER ME TIMBERS (Tom Waits)
From: ClaireBear
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 05:51 PM

It's hard to fathom, this sense of loss. I am still bereft, but glad to hear that his passage was peaceful. And I feel so privileged to have been singing with Barry, two weeks ago. Had I not made it to the Getaway this year, I would be inconsolable just now.

I heard the following song on Friday night at the conclusion of an episode of the TV show NUMB3RS. It's by Tom Waits, and it may be that everyone else on the planet knows it already, But I'd never heard it, and it spoke volumes to me:

SHIVER ME TIMBERS
Written by Tom Waits
(The Heart Of Saturday Night, studio version, Elektra/Asylum Records, 1974)
Published by: Fifth Floor Music Inc. (ASCAP), © 1974


I'm leavin' my family, I'm leavin' all my friends
My body's at home, but my heart's in the wind
Where the clouds are like headlines on a new front page sky
My tears are salt water, and the moon's full and high

And I know Martin Eden's gonna be proud of me now
And many before me, who've been called by the sea
To be up in the crow's nest, and singin' my say
Shiver me timbers, cause I'm a-sailin' away

And the fog's liftin', and the sand's shiftin', and I'm driftin' on out
Ol' Captain Ahab, he ain't got nothin' on me now
So swallow me, don't follow me, I'm travellin' alone
Blue water's my daughter, and I'm gonna skip like a stone

So please call my missus, gotta tell her not to cry now
Cause my goodbye is written by the moon in the sky
Hey, and nobody knows me, I can't fathom my stayin'
And shiver me timbers, cause I'm a-sailin' away

And the fog's liftin', and the sand's shiftin', and I'm driftin' on out
And ol' Captain Ahab, he ain't got nothin' on me
So come and swallow me, follow me, I'm travellin' alone
Blue water's my daughter, I'm gonna skip like a stone

And I'm leavin' my family, I'm leavin' all my friends
My body's at home, but my heart's in the wind
Where the clouds are like headlines upon a new front page sky
And shiver me timbers, cause I'm a-sailin' away

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,guest Gina Dunlap
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 06:27 PM

Barry was a dear man. We have been friends for many years and I am deeply saddened. My thoughts are with the family and with our sea music community. This is a very great loss for all of us who loved Barry. Fair winds, Gina

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Fortunato
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 06:28 PM

Susette and I sang Hello Stranger last night at the Royal Mile Pub for Barry, accompanied by Neal Foley the great Irish fiddler. It was a song Barry had requested from us in Maine this summer.

It was not a parting song, but he enjoyed the song's call and response in the old style of the Carter Family.

Hail and Farewell, Barry, my friend, you were the finest kind.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Joe Offer
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 06:30 PM

Reading this thread brings tears to my eyes. Goodbye, Barry. It was a pleasure and a privilege to know you.
May God bless and keep you and your family.

-Joe-

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Snuffy
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 06:40 PM

Meeting Barry was one of the major highlights of our trip to the 2003 Getaway: such an amazing repertoire of traditional ballads, as well as the shanties and worksongs. And always a total commitment to the song, and an encouraging word for we others who could not match him in any department.

I always thought I'd see you again, Barry, and sing with you again. But now it will have to be beyond the Grey Havens

Twilight and evening bell,
    And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
    When I embark;
For though from out our bourne of Time and Place
    The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
    When I have crossed the bar.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: wysiwyg
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 06:43 PM

Just got this. Oh my, where to start.... wordlessly I guess.

So sorry. A great light now shining elsewhere.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Arkie
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 06:57 PM

Sure wish I had the opportunity to know Barry the way most of the others here did. You know from his Mudcat posts that he was knowledgeable and good one to have at your side. Even those of us who did not know Barry personally will miss him here at Mudcat but are richer for having had him here. Joe thanks for the email and letting me know about this while Mudcat was down.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Peace
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 07:10 PM

Ditto what Arkie said.

I'll miss Barry. The arguments, the agreements, the music. He was a kind soul and I'm glad his passing was an easy one.

Bruce Murdoch

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Jeri
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 07:12 PM

I went to see him off today. Justine will be OK, and Natalie and Gabriel are also strong. I have a feeling Barry wasn't afraid to talk about dying since he came so close a couple times. It also seems that it's hard knowing you won't get any more time together, but the worst sort of mourning is for what could have been and now, never will. There's none of that with Barry. I think all his possibilities were realities, and I can't imagine him being any better at anything than he was.

There were a lot of people at the funeral home. There were people showing up all day long, and many were hanging around to share memories. We'll be doing that for a long, long time.

In the DT:
YOU WOULDN'T KNOW IT TO LOOK AT ME, and
IDA LEWIS

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: ranger1
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 07:25 PM

Barry

Thought people might enjoy this picture.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Beer
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 07:31 PM

Sympathies to his family and friends. Many of which are here.
Adrien

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Ebbie, at the library again
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 07:34 PM

My god. Have you ever cried at a library?

An Alaskan Mudcat who was at the Getaway this year after several years' absence came home saying that among all the many, many highlights, the one that blew her away was Barry Finn.

I am so sorry, so stunned.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Janie
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 07:35 PM

Thanks, Jeri.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 07:38 PM

Reading this thread, I really wish I'd known him.

There's a song I wrote which I always seem to sing when someone I care about dies, and here's the first verse:

Now you've left us behind and you've gone on your way,
over the edge of the world.
You left without warning with so much to say.
Are you just round the corner, or far far away?
Well, goodbye, and I hope I might see you some day,
over the edge of the world.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Janie
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 07:59 PM

Beautiful, Kevin.

There are many on Mudcat who knew Barry better and longer than I, but I can say that if you knew him, on Mudcat, you knew Barry. He was always authentically Barry, on-line or in person. On stage or off.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: ClaireBear
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 08:07 PM

Indeed, Kevin, lovely and fitting. Thank you.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Zen
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 08:09 PM

I did not know Barry but once heard him sing when I was in Boston (Paddy Burke's Pub I think). Wonderful voice.

Condolences to his family and may he rest in peace.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: CamiSu
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 08:20 PM

I'm not so good at putting the words out publicly. I got the news from Chance on Friday and have been thinking about Justine & the kids most of the time since. I am comforted to know that it was an easy passage for Barry. I have developed the opinion that while a sudden passing is harder on those left behind, it is often much better than a slow one.

Justine, I am thinking of you and sending love. I only met Barry the once at your house -- what--9 years ago? and you were both so loving. I wish you had had much longer together. Stay warm (being cold still gives me the lonelies), give and get hugs. He was a wonderful man and he still loves you, just from a longer distance.

I'm so sorry.

CamiSu

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Ref
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 08:35 PM

Only knew him a bit from here. An honest, thoughtful man. Too, too Goddamn young.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 08:35 PM

Barry "loved ballads, mostly American ones, but hadn't had a place to sing them for years."

That is the great gift the Mudcat, Max, FSGW, all have made possible.

Barry was a rare soul, and I loved every bit of him I ran into, from the first moment we met. That song he wrote was the first I ever heard from him, bellowed across the room in the first-ever flesh and blood gathering of Mudcat folks graciously invited by the FSGW… 10 years ago? 11? I can hear those first notes, echoing.

Though we only met once a year at Getaways, Barry in his gentle way encouraged me to sing as loudly as he could tell I wanted to : ) and I have learned so much from him. His singing introduced me to the music he loved (shanties and other work songs, prison songs), which I came to love as well, and in his unassuming way, he is certainly responsible for spreading very important parts of our distinctly American heritage in many directions.

He was also great fun, great silliness. "Devil-May-Care" for sure. Does anyone else remember the late-night bench-moving shanties sung in the freezing upstairs room @ Ramblewood?!

More than anyone else at the Mudcat, when I read Barry's posts I could hear his distinctive voice, out loud: always passionate and caring, sometimes full of righteous indignation, sometimes tongue-in-cheek. He had profound intelligence in and of unconventional places. Heart-wisdom, hard-earned, no bullshit.

I believe when he survived the liver-drama, his soul said "*@!# it, we're all-in for whatever's left! Eat it up!" That's the spirit I saw a few weeks ago, and I didn't want to recognize that a person can't go on the way he did that weekend, but I bet he knew.

We thought we lost him once. It was a coda, he had, and he seemed to have used it fully!

Justine, Gabriel, Natalie, thanks for sharing your Barry with us, and please accept my deepest condolences on your loss.

Dani

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Ron Davies
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 09:02 PM

This is incredibly hard to believe.   He was the essence of life--doing everything, especially singing, with such gusto. Larger than life, full of good gutsy opinions and even more great music--but modest too.    A meteor lighting up the life of anyone who met him. It seems so unfair--even impossible--that he's gone.

"What a singing there will be.."

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Bill D
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 09:10 PM

ah, the bench-moving shanties! That was amazing...*I* was among the 'movers', and Barry rode that bench like...like...well, like he appreciated how much fun WE were having! He took everything in stride except injustice and stupidity and the like.... and then he got off the bench and made sure he was heard!

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: bbc
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 09:34 PM

What a time for Mudcat to go down. I got the word at Eisteddfod through Joy Bennett Friday evening. We were so sad. Barry lived & sang large. He was as real & as kind a person as I ever hope to meet. My life is richer for having called him "friend." He touched the lives of so many people. Yes, it's tragic to lose him so unexpectedly & at his not-very-advanced age, but I think we can all agree that he lived life to the full & for that I'm grateful. I couldn't make it to the funeral home today, but I played the Finn & Haddie cd & spent my time thinking of Barry & praying for his family & friends. What a great guy!

Barbara

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Charley Noble
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 09:36 PM

Some of us who were singing at the Press Room yesterday could feel Barry's presence in the room, and even hear him adding strength to the choruses, not to mention strengthening the voices of those who were leading songs. This is not at all surprising to me, or to anyone who spent any amount of time with Barry. There are a couple of reworded verses that keep surfacing in my mind right now, and I guess I better post them, or someone may make it difficult for me to get any sleep:

Inspired by "The Tryphena's Extra Hand" by C. Fox Smith

"Many a year I've sung these songs,
And I've got to like them well,
And I've not much hopes of heaven
And I've not much use for hell:
But if so be as they'll let me,
By the great hook-block I swear,
When I hear you singing shanties,
My voice will be there."

There'll be one more voice at the halyards,
You'll hear me on the yard
Above them thundering courses
When they're frosted good and hard,
One more voice on the forebrace
When the waist's neck deep in foam,
One more voice to sweat the tops'ls up
And sheet t'ga'n's'ls home.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Guy Wolff
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 09:53 PM

I have to say with all the years at mudcat Barry was the first voices that helped me find some interesting bit of New England Musical history .. So many threads ago I cant remember what but he has always been a wonderful addition to my hours here . Someone above wrote "Knowledgeable"and I would add generous with his knowledge . I am so sorry I didn't get to sing with him . I always wanted to get up to the press room . My very best to his family and tons of thank you's to Barry for all he has added here . What a loss .. RIP <><><> Guy

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: MRyer
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 10:09 PM

I've known Barry for many years, although there was a period of about 15 years that we lost touch with each other. We reconnected in Portsmouth, NH about five years ago. And, typical of Barry, there was no reproach for the lost years... only full speed ahead... as if we'd never parted.

   I'm in mind, tonight, about getting a call from Barry in the summer of '76, when the tall ships were in Boston, to join him on a jaunt to see if we could find some shanty singing around the ships. So, off we went.

With his typical undaunted style, we soon found ourselves singing shanties on a Polish ship where only one or two of the crew could translate our English. And it didn't matter, the shanties were grand and so was Barry. Many of the tunes were familiar, and many of their chorusus were in English, with Polish verses. We'd trade verses back and forth, Polish, then English, all to much laughter, good cheer, and more than a few beers.
I swear that I could not have talked us aboard that ship in a million years. Yet, Barry had us easily aboard and singing with that combination of nerve and charm.

Upon leaving the ship, we were each presented with a paperback shanty book written in Polish... which I still have in my library.

   Our reunion in Portsmouth took place after his last transplant and I can tell you that Barry lived these last five years to the fullest.

Soon after our reunion, we had convinced ourselves to share our repertoires with each other to see where there might be some overlaps to sing together. I sent off my two 8.5 X 11 single sided sheets of single spaced song listings. In the mail a few days later I received Barry's list of 10 or more sheets single spaced on both sides!! Most of us knew him for shanties. My God, he had the voice for them. But, I've traded songs with him, one on one, all evening and into the wee morning hours... and his music knew no walls. He especially liked ballads and could sing them sweetly or forcefully or tenderly, as required.

   I'm thankful that Barry had finished his CD with Neil, had had a smashing singing success in Britain this year, and had recently started some part time work: estimating construction projects related to his former roofing trade. I know the latter was good for his pride.

Barry was a good friend; had an intelligent, sharp mind; didn't judge folks; really cared about passing on our music to younger folks and encouraged new and shy folks; was fair and caring about his politics; loved his family with ferocity; had courage, spunk, humor, ribaldry; encouraged and supported everyone's music; knew a lot about all kinds of music; was the real McCoy; and at a music event he was the best of all roomates 'cause he was never there: always off singing somewhere.

   With all of his health problems, I never heard him complain, not even once.

   There's a big hole over here.

   He was a solid man.



Mark Ryer

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Sandy Mc Lean
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 10:20 PM

Sad and shocking news! RIP!

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: WFDU - Ron Olesko
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 10:27 PM

I heard the sad news this weekend while at Eisteddfod. I am still in shock. I only met Barry once or twice, but we e-mailed back and forth on occasion as well as here on Mudcat - and his passing has hit me hard.   I will always remember the first time I heard him sing. It was at an after concert sing at Old Songs a few years back. I could not believe that incredible voice and the passion that he was sharing. We bantered about a couple of subjects here on Mudcat, and while we sometimes had a difference of opinion, I always admired and respected him. I saw passion, knowledge, principles and a sense of humor - all to be admired.

My condolences to his family and friends. He obviously touched many of us, and we are all richer for having known him - even if just for a moment.   I will continue to share his music on my radio program and remember him fondly.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Ross Campbell
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 10:57 PM

Such a shock to read this. He brought such spirit and conviction to his songs it's hard to believe he could be gone so quick. But I'm so glad we made the effort to see Barry and Dan at Scarborough Seafest just a few months ago, and looked forward to their planned return to UK next year. Thank you, Barry, for the song, and for all your contributions and encouragement in the Merchant Navy songs thread.

Ross

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Rabbi-Sol
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 10:58 PM

I personally feel a very profound loss. When we held the Mystic Sea Music Festival Fundraiser at The Borderline last April Barry was the first to volunteer his services, driving 6 hours each way from NH to perform gratis. While we were in the planning stage Barry would PM me at least 3 times a week for an update and to ask me what else he could do to be of assistance. At the fundraiser itself, Barry's performance was memorable. He also joined in on stage with many of the other performers in the choruses and to do background vocals.

I last spoke with Barry at the Mystic Festival itself on Sunday. He was standing near the boat shed at Lighthouse Point during the final concert. He asked me when I was going to book him for a paid gig at The Borderline and knowing my requirements in advance he handed me his latest CD to take to our booking committee. This past Thursday night we were working on our schedule for 2010 and we tentatively penciled Barry's name in for our March 7th show. I was going to get word to him on Friday morning or as soon as I could reach him. However, when I booted up my my computer on Friday morning I received the shocking news of his passing and I felt as if I had lost a family member. It affected me the entire weekend.

I communicated with CeltAddict last night via Facebook and suggested that we might fill that date with a Barry Finn Memorial Tribute concert. She thought it was a great idea and was going to contact some musicians from Mystic to see who might want to participate and would get back to me later this week. At the time Mudcat was down and we did not know when it would be back on line. Now that it is back up and running I expect to hear from her soon.

SOL

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Ferrara
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 11:14 PM

MRyer, thank you for those reminiscences, especially the story of the Polish tall ship! I can just see Barry communicating with those guys. And the story about his song sheets. Rabbi-Sol, I hope you will be able to do your Barry Finn Memorial Tribute concert. That is so right.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Genie
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 11:32 PM

I too have had a terribly strong feeling of loss since Joe emailed me the news of Barry's death. Somehow I felt this loss, viscerally, even more than I have felt at the death of people I've known much better.

I can't actually say I "knew" Barry - except for occasional online exchanges in Mudcat threads and, finally, being in the same room with him at the 2008 Getaway and getting to hear him several times and record videos of 3 of his songs. But, of course, his was a presence that had a powerful impact. Not just the voice, but the wonderful warmth, wit, and energy that emanate from this man.

The first time I hear him was when he and Ken Schatz were doing some spontaneous singing in the room where the auction items were at last year's Getaway. Jaw-dropping singing, to say the least.   Next day I learned who these two were. And then Barry dropped in about 4 or 5 AM in the Peace Cabin on Sunday AM -- just as we 'residents' were about to finally hit the sack.   Couldn't do that, of course, with Big Mick playing bodhran while Barry belted out "Salonika"and "Woolloomooroo Lair" "now, could we? *g*

Then on Sunday night Barry sang his own sardonic "Guantanamo Bay"" at the Sunday night concert.

I was so fortunate to be able to capture those 3 on video and, as I realize now, even more fortunate that the Barry Finn videos were not among the casualties of my hard drive crash earlier this year.   And Barry had added those 3 to his own, recently inaugurated YouTube channel: "MrBarryFinn"

I was sad to have to miss this year's Getaway and looked forward to hearing Barry again next year and maybe having the chance to get to know him a little better. So sorry that won't happen now.   But I do so value the contribution Barry has made to Mudcat and to the folk community.   
And, yes, that heavenly "choir"/"jam band" will now have another angelic voice. But that choir is growing too big, too fast to suit me.   (Bobert, it's looking like your Blues Band (w Floozies) workshop is gonna have strong competition again next year. This has got to stop.)

My condolences to Justine and the rest of the family.

Genie

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Neil D
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 11:41 PM

Mudcat has lost a brilliant voice. Whether it was singing an old prison song or passionately speaking his mind in a Mudcat thread, it was magnificent. I didn't know him personally but I'll miss him that way.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Seamus Kennedy
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 11:45 PM

God, this is sad news.
Thank you, Barry for sharing your gift with us all, and rest in peace.

My sincere condolences to his family.

Seamus

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Genie
Date: 18 Oct 09 - 11:51 PM

Wonderful picture of Barry here!
This is the pic that was used for the prayer card at Barry's wake today.

Genie

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: open mike
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 12:09 AM

Will someone please tell me if there is a connection?
I happened to open a message tonight with a tune written in it:
X: 1
T: Barry Finn
M: 6/8
L: 1/8
R: jig
K: Gmaj
|:D3 FED|FAA A2 B|c3 BAG|EDC EGE|
D3 FED|FAA EGG|EDC A,B,C|D3 A3:|
|:d2 e d2 c|ABc EFG|ABc EFG|A3 A2G|
FED EGG|CEE G2A| EDC A,B,C|D3 D2 A:|

this was the web site:
http://www.thesession.org/tunes/display.php/9970

tune: Barry Finn, jig

Key signature: Gmajor

Submitted on October 17th 2009 by seinnteoir.

Is the person seinnteoir a mudcat? is this tune about "our" Barry?

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 01:10 AM

The Banks of the Callow

Amos made this video just two weeks ago. A stunning performance by Barry Finn at the 2009 Getaway.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 03:35 AM

Heard the news via facebook and was shocked.

I met Barry atthe Getaway in 2005. He was a lovely man with a fantastic voice. A genuine soul.

Khatt

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Spleen Cringe
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 04:11 AM

So sorry to hear this. Never met Barry, but enjoyed his posts here and the Youtube clips.

My condolences to his family and friends.

Nigel

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Murray MacLeod
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 04:13 AM

I have just realised with a shock that it is over ten years since I met Barry, at the singaround he used to host in Boston. Since then I have always looked forward to seeing and hearing him again one day, and it is an even greater shock to realise that now that day will never come.

R.I.P Barry, you were one of the good guys.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: stallion
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 04:17 AM

Jo, my wife, just came across the enormous pot, endless pot, of maple syrup barry gave us.............little bits are still around us. For a moment, in the cafe overlooking the harbour in scarborough, Barry and i connected through an experience of the past that we had both been through, no words could describe nor were needed, we just gazed at the boats in the harbour and I thought thank f*** i made it to be here and i think he maybe thought the same. Sorry to ramble on, I am in a bit of a state.
Pete

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Mr Happy
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 04:48 AM

So sorry to hear sad news.

I'd met Barry just briefly this year at the Bull Bay fest in Anglesey, North Wales, when he was staying in uk with Andrew [Crane Driver] & enjoyed his fine renditions of shanties & trad British songs.

He was a little miffed with the large quantity of American material being performed by others, & I recall him remarking something like 'I've come all the way to Britain from the 'states & you're all doing American songs!!'

However, he did hear some British stuff from us as well.

I'm very glad he was able to make it over here & experience a good time on his holiday, travelling all over.

Guess he's now on another plane, entertaining folk in the afterlife!!

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Sailor Ron
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 04:51 AM

So sorry to hear this sad news. I never met Barry, I missed him when he was over here a few mths ago, buthave 'talked' to him on Mud Cat.
My thoughts & prayers are with his family.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Skipper Jack
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 04:59 AM

I was shocked to learn of Barry's passing.

On behalf of Baggyrinkle of Swansea, Wales, UK we send our deepest sympathy to his family.

We met Barry at Mystic in 2002.

RIP.

Dave Robinson
pp Baggyrinkle (Swansea Shantymen)

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 05:41 AM

I never did, but Barry was on my long list of people I would like to have met. Missed him in the UK this year because of festival commitments elsewhere. God's speed Mr Finn.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 06:19 AM

I can't hope to match the quality of the tributes above from people who knew Barry in the flesh, but I was stunned when I heard the news from katlaughing on Sunday. Although I only knew Barry from postings by and about him on the 'Cat I feel yet another good friend has gone. Condolences to his family. Glad his music will live on.

RtS

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: SussexCarole
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 06:35 AM

We are both devasted by this news.   We've shared many wonderful times and songs with Barry on both sides of the pond and we have so many memories especially from this summer when Barry stayed with us on his UK trip. Barry was such a special person

Our love and thoughts are with you Justine and all your family and to all Barry's friends who are sharing this tragic loss

Carole & Andrew

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Dave Roberts
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 07:01 AM

Like Mr H, I met Barry only once, at the Bull Bay Festival at the start of August. He was wonderful.
Sincere condolences to family and friends.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,John from "Elsie`s Band"
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 07:04 AM

To Barry`s family and all who knew him, please accept our deepest condolences. This year at Mystic there was not an outward hint of any underlying problems. We are so glad friends in Britain got to see him this year.
Rest in Peace.
John

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Uncle Phil
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 09:23 AM

Sad news. Please add my condolences to Barry's family and friends. One measure of a man is what others say about him. This thread is a great testament to Barry.
- Phil

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: JoeSimes
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 09:40 AM

Thanks Mark for the stories!

I've only known Barry for a few years from the Press Room. Earlier this year he decided we should learn a song together. We both like Admiral Benbow by June Tabor/Martin Simpson. So he says to me "You learn the guitar parts and I'll get the words down". I didn't tell him I already knew the guitar parts.

A few weeks ago he says to me at the Press Room. "So where's your guitar?" I said to him I was too busy with work and stuff to think about doing anything.

He said "It's just as well I don't know the $#&*^!% words!" :)

You'll be missed buddy!!

Joe

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Becca72
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 09:46 AM

Just seeing this now after being offline all weekend. I'm absolutely shocked. I only met Barry a few times at Mary's and Spring Point last year, but enjoyed his company and sense of humor.

RIP Barry

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Azizi
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 09:50 AM

Barry made the world a better place.

Thank you.

My heart felt condolences to his family.

Azizi

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Big Mick
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 09:54 AM

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

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: jacqui.c
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 10:01 AM

At last year's Getaway I asked Barry to take part in the Mummer's play, as the Egyptian Princess. I told him that all he had to do was to stand there looking diaphanous. Once he knew what that meant he was quite happy, particularly as he didn't have a speaking part.

We really dressed him up like a Christmas tree. You can see what he looked like here. He went along with all of it and even put in a few of his own ad libs during the performance. I loved him for that.

I was at the Scarborough (UK) Seafest this year and Barry and Ken really were the hit of the weekend. wherever I went people had nothing but good things to say about them and they just seemed to be having the best time.

Barry died way too soon for all of us but he went out on a real high. He really was a man who knew how to live life and to love every person and every minute of it. I am so glad to have known him.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: catspaw49
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 10:04 AM

When I posted before when Barry had just entered the hospital, I jokingly said he was "experienced" and knew what to do to get well.

Barry, I wish you'd taken my advice.

Back in '98 when I arrived here, Barry was one of the exchanges I remember first. I agreed with his antipathy toward RUS but in his case, I don't think that was the right word. No, for Barry RUS was more like a "stomp it in the mud, rip it to shreds, burn the remains, and bury the ashes in a tar pit, hatred" than antipathy. Like many other issues, he made clear where he stood and it was not straddling a rail.

I think many of us felt a love and kinship for Barry Finn and I always felt a bond based on some similarities more than RUS.....We were close in age and were paying later in life for the "sins" of our earlier one. Somewhere along the line, 23 years ago, we both married unbelievable women who were also our best friends and had some really special kids......LOL......and a Weimaraner. Yesterday was Karen and my 23rd anniversary and we spent it with me in the hospital getting checked out once again. As we waited for testing and test results, we talked about Barry and Justine.....two people we had never met in 3D but nevertheless felt the friendship which Mudcat had given us. On a lighter note, I told Karen not to let me order any ice chips as I didn't like what they did to Barry!

On occasion I have used the old line, "If I'd known I was going to live this long, I'd have treated myself better." And while, like Barry, I too would give about anything for more time with my family, who we were in our earlier days also was a significant part of who we became. Maybe if we'd had some kind of Crystal Ball and could have seen ahead to our great fortune in finding the wonderful women we did..............but there is only what is and what should be never existed.

To Justine, Natalie, and Gabriel. you have the warmest thoughts and most heartfelt sympathies from Karen, Tristan, Michael, and myself. I know that time does heal, but it never quite heals enough. Perhaps that's the right way of things..........I dunno'...........But I also know his memory will fill your heart and be passed along to others. That's what real immortality is.

We will all miss you Barry for hundreds of reasons.......Thanks for being here, for sharing so much, so freely, and so well with us, and most of all..........For being the man you were.

   
Pat

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Severn
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 10:22 AM

Devastating news.I've greatly admired his singing since I first heard him sing "Won't You Help Me To Raise 'Em Boys" years ago at a Getaway, and looked forward to hearing him sing there at every chance I got in succeeding years. Always one of the major highlights among a those in a weekend always jam packed with them. I didn't know him well, alas, but was always in complete awe of him. A huge loss to the folk community and I'll mourn as an individual still learning how to sing to whom in both performance and choice he set a standard to aim for.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: maeve
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 10:37 AM

Barry was kind to me when we both appeared in the Maritime Folk Music Festival at Spring Point last year. I was so afraid I'd forget the words to the songs in my little set, and he encouraged me to just sing out, then told me I did a good job. It was a bonus to exchange some songs and conversation later that day at Sinsull's house. Just a few days ago I sent a PM telling him how much I looked forward to hearing his songs again.

I loved his singing, but was most impressed by his devotion to his family. He was so happy to have made a garden for them this summer, and was unencumbered by ego in seeking the best approach to garden challenges he encountered.

It would be an honor to meet Justine, Natalie, and Gabriel. Your husband- your father- loved you. Thank you all for sharing him with so many of us.

maeve

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: katlaughing
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 11:00 AM

For those who can access facebook, there is a really beautiful picture of Barry and Justine. Maybe someone who knows them better could ask permission to copy and paste it elsewhere where everyone could see it.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: JWB
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 11:07 AM

Barry was a true folk singer: unschooled, unique, passionate, talented and genuine. He may not have done hard time flat-weeding at Parchman Farm, or bowsed on a lee forebrace off the Horn, but the way he sang made you think he had. And his repertoire! My God, he had an ear for the back-of-the-drawer kind of songs, ones that 99 out of a hundred singers would pass by. He would take them and find the soul of them, and share them with us and we were amazed. I think he's the person I've asked more than any other, "Where ever did you find that song?"

He and Neil invited me to be part of Finn and Haddie some years back, and during the year I was able to participate I received an invaluable education from Barry in how to put across a ballad. He could captivate an audience with a long slow song that, in the mouths of most singers, wouldn't hold attention past the third verse. It was his energy, his belief in the song, and most of all his voice: rust on silver, with a chanteyman's stridency and the warmth of crooner, all at once.

I don't want to have to say goodbye. I need to belt out "Trinidad to Venezuela!" with him again. I didn't get the "The Old Brig" from him yet. I didn't tell him what a treasure he is, or thank him for all the times he surprised, moved and delighted me. Now it's too #!@>ing late!

A sailor stood at the pearly gates,
His face was scarred and old.
He stood before the man of fate
For admission to the fold.

"And what have you done?" Saint Peter said,
"To gain admission here?"
"Oh, I've been sailor, sir," he said,
"For many and manys a year."

The pearly gates swung open wide
As Saint Peter struck the bell.
"Come on inside and choose your harp –
"You've served your time in hell."

Jerry

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: SINSULL
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 11:25 AM

"or bowsed on a lee forebrace off the Horn"
Actually, I think he may have. Barry led a very colorful existence pre-Justine. I hope Micca can remember some of the sailing tales Barry told on the infamous drive/lurch back from the Getaway.
Barry never said an unkind word about anybody. He loved life, his family, his music, his friends.
For all his roughness he was a gentle soul.
Damn! It is hard to lose him.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: irishenglish
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 11:43 AM

R.I.P. Barry

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: RiGGy
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 12:06 PM

I knew Barry pretty well. We first met in the late '70s when we were both part of the Boston Irish scene centering on the Village Coach House in Brookline Village. He became my first concertina student and I his chantey understudy. When my painful breakup with an ex became too much he convinced me to pack it in for Boston and try San Francisco.

He'd lived out here for a while after sailing in from Hawaii. We packed up the car in Nov '81 and kept the snowflakes in the rear view mirror. Sang in 2-part harmony in every college town coffee house during a very relaxed, slow trip cross-country. Arriving on Thanksgiving, we had our dinner at a Zen Center across from the Plough and Stars. Found an apt in a fancy part of town near the Hyde Street Pier and Paul's Saloon and made the best of it.

Got the brilliant idea of hauling out our Cruel Ship's Captain type of songs and singing on the streets in those thriving, pre-AIDS, S&M neighborhoods in the South-of-Market and Castro. We were inseparable, and some folks thought we were an item. Justine and her sisters were lived here, and when Barry sidled up to her, she thought it he was joking.   

His roofing gig was really problematic for him and his East Coast mouth got him in trouble and the union black-balled him. He struck back with a law suit he won, and with it moved back east and bought the historic Derry house with the winnings [ please correct any of this if "kinder memory is fooling me"... ].

I later married Mary and got her deaf son, Paul, in the bargain. He and Barry got along really well, When Barry's son also had a "disability" we had a big thing we shared, and I so resonated with the song mentioned above.   

Got a nice visit last year with Barry and his daughter to my ranch, and as you all know with Barry, it was like we'd never parted. An immediate, what-you-see-is-what-you-get guy every day and every time. Sorely missed ......

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Dave Swan
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 12:18 PM

I found this thread yesterday and I'm still trying to get my head around it.

Several years ago at a singing session at my house Barry stood, jammed his hands in his pockets, threw back his head, and made the house ring. It was the first time I'd heard him live. Of course I was more than impressed. When he was finished Barry sat down as if what he had done was no big deal. He was the only one in the room who thought so.

On another visit out here I took Barry to the Thurday night chantey show at Quinn's Lighthouse pub. It's a regular performance of Skip Henderson and Starboard Watch with occasional guests. I asked Skip if he had a spot for a friend from out of town, which he graciously provided. During the second set Barry, the mild mannered out of towner, stood at our table and let go. Quinn's is usually pretty noisy and people seated at the bar normally shout over the music. Barry wasn't far into his song when the place fell quiet. He had the room to himself and made the best of it. The place went crazy when Barry finished. He acknowledged the applause with a little shrug and sat down, again as if nothing wonderful had just poured out of him.

Talent, warmth and style.

Like the rest of us, I'll miss him.

Warmest condolences to Justine, Natalie and Gabriel.

D

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 12:20 PM

Lord, I love these stories. How nice for his family to have this.

I just spit my coffee out remembering Fatima's giggle.

Dani

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: jacqui.c
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 12:38 PM

LOL Dani. Thank you.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: ClaireBear
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 01:15 PM

Omigosh, yes! I'd forgotten that giggle!

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Jed on a borrowed PC
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 01:34 PM

What very sad news. I am so sorry to find this notice - and I'm so late to the news. I wishI could be there for the funeral and the goodbyes.

My most heartfelt conolences to his loved ones - and my thanks to the heavens for the opprtunity to have known him, even for just a little while.

Barry - thanks for your song, thanks for your story and now may you add another strong voice to the Angel Chorus!

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Martin Ryan
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 01:51 PM

Very sad to hear of Barry's death...

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: SINSULL
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 02:10 PM

Fatima's falsetto was more than I could take. Diaphanous, indeed. Hairy!

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: RiGGy
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 02:16 PM

Please, pray tell, WHAT is "Fatima's giggle" ?
Google only gets me back to THIS thread . . .

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: jacqui.c
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 02:20 PM

That was what we ended up calling Barry when he dressed up for the Mummer's play - check my post at 10:01 AM today. Trust me, once seen, never forgotten.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: radriano
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 02:26 PM

It was a shock to hear of Barry's death.

Barry was in San Francisco for awhile many years ago, back when I was singing with my former group Out of the Rain. Barry learned a shanty from us that he really loved - the river shanty version of "One More Day". Now I'll always think of Barry when I sing this. It's traditionally sung much slower than the deep water version:

ONE MORE DAY
river shanty

Oh, row me 'cross the river, I heard a maiden say
Oh, row me to my lover
One more day

One more day, my Johnny, one more day
Oh, rock and row me over
One more day

I'm almost brokenhearted, he can no longer stay
Once more we shall be parted
One more day

I've seen the seabirds flying, ashore from o'er the bay
I felt they all were crying
One more day

For seabirds get the warning, which one and all obey
The tempest loud is storming
One more day

Oh, do not fear, my beauty, the call I must obey
But love gives place to duty
One more day

Oh, heave and sight the anchor, we sail out from the bay
Oh, heave and sight the anchor
One more day

O'er many seas I'll roam, love, ere I return to stay
To stay with thee at home, love
One more day

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 02:31 PM

I think I have photos. We'll check later. Or search the thread from last year? Those eyes behind the veil, then the giggle. Oh Lord.

Dani

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Lizzie Cornish 1
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 03:01 PM

"Barry was in San Francisco for awhile many years ago, back when I was singing with my former group Out of the Rain. Barry learned a shanty from us that he really loved - the river shanty version of "One More Day". Now I'll always think of Barry when I sing this. It's traditionally sung much slower than the deep water version:"




I have that playing on my page at the moment, radriano...it's on Barry and Neil's Myspace..

Finn & Haddie Myspace

This is a beautiful thread...and one he richly deserves. I hope it brings some comfort to Barry's family to see how many people cared so deeply about him.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Skivee
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 03:15 PM

What sad news.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: SINSULL
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 03:32 PM

Fatima:
http://www.wincingdevil.com/FSGWGetaway08/081004_204918.html

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: alanabit
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 03:55 PM

Like many others, I only knew him from here. I can only add that I am one of many who will miss this direct and likeable man.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Busy Lizzy
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 04:21 PM

To say I am both shocked and saddened by this news is an understatement. I popped onto Mudcat this evening to say hello and start a chat about something else and read this awful news.

I am sure I speak on behalf of all of us (including Mr Happy who writes above) who were at Anglesey for the BUll Bay Music Festival this summer, it was a REAL priviledge to have met Barry - a truly likable and knowledgable man who wholeheartedly joined in our little festival and made himself really at home with us.

If any of Barry's family read this, we want you to know we are proud to have met him and it is with much sadness we send you our condolences.

Liz Rosenfield and Ian Murfitt and all the family here in Cheshire, England.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Colin Randall
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 04:25 PM

Dreadful news and just wanted to add my condolences.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Jeri
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 04:49 PM

There is a place on the Peabody Funeral Home's Obituary to leave messages of condolence. Look down at the bottom. I don't know how long the page will remain up.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: open mike
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 04:51 PM

the foto of Barry and Justine is here:
pic # 49 of 65 on album #4 on Barry's facebook pg.
http://www.facebook.com/BarryFinn?v=photos&sb=4&so=60#/photo.php?pid=247879&op=4&o=global&view=global&subj=567900817&id=1668505418

and this one in the UK radio station really shows those
blue eyes he had!in Photos of Barry Finn--Photo 10 of 65.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Charley Noble
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 05:56 PM

Judy and I just got back home from the long haul to the funeral church service for Barry. The huge cathedral was almost full and I could recognize many long time friends and family members. Barry's sister-in-law shared some wonderful stories about him; Barry wasn't necessarily their favorite pick for Justine but they sure grew to love him.

Driving back home we were mostly in a somber mood, until we got giggling over the likely reaction of the angels after they gave Barry a harp to play with.

I'm sure more of a musical remembrance will be pulled together later next year. There are so many songs that could be led to celebrate Barry's life.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Lorraine
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 06:25 PM

Still struggling to believe. Barry was so generous and kind. A wonderful fellow... The stories here are important and help reality set in. I believe I met Justine at that first getaway, but in any case lots of love to her and family. I wish there was more I could do.
~Lorraine

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: haddocker
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 07:01 PM

The sea chanteys were only one part of Barry's repertoire. When we would take a break from practicing, I would get out my guitar and we'd do stuff like "Pancho and Lefty", "Pour Me Another Tequila Sheilah" and Willie Nelson songs about gunfighters. Often, we might break into some doo-wop or even fifties rock n' roll. Those are the times I will really miss. Barry Finn was my singing partner for almost fifteen years. In that time frame I shared in his trials and his celebrations; came to know him as a warm and loving friend and family man who would take a singing gig at the drop of a hat, regardless of the distance or monetary return. He just loved to sing and I loved singing with him. Miss him? It's like having a piece of my heart torn out. His passing has left an unfillable hole. Tonight, the Celestial Choirs are in the process of changing their repertoire to "Sally Rackett" and "Blood Red Roses". My brother will be waiting to show him around.
    Barry will forever be in my heart and in my prayer.
          Fair winds and following seas, shipmate,
                         Neil

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Charley Noble
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 07:10 PM

Neil-

It was good to see you again today.

I wish you lived nearer so we might share some more songs and stories together.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Richard Atkins
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 08:52 PM

Remembering this wonderful guy throught today.Our time with Barry was a high point of our recent crossing of the pond.
A remarkable talented character.A huge loss to us and so many.
Today will be a tribute to a spesial man.
All love to Justine family and Neil.
Richard and Hils

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: CET
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 09:04 PM

I'm not sure when I first met Barry. Was it at that first shanty session in Portland, Maine, about nine years ago? Chez Bat Goddess and Curmudgeon? At the Press Room? Or maybe at our first Getaway at Camp Ramblewood. Whatever it was, he very soon became a fixed point in our trips to the U.S. There weren't many who could make a late night singing session catch fire like he could. On our first couple of visits, I thought there was a bit of reserve on his part. It was certainly not unfriendliness, but I was an unknown quantity and I think he wanted to see what I was about. I was very proud when I showed up at one of the events (probably the Getaway) and Barry greeted me with a big hug. I don't sing like Barry, and I don't try to, but I learned a lot from him about how to present a song. I won't ever come close to his repertoire.

I'm going to miss him.

Edmund

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Susan A-R
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 09:23 PM

Damn!! I remember Barry at NEFFA, at his home, at the Getaway (and on a wonderful, memorable ride down and back to the Getaway) and at Old Songs. And Life is what I remember, in his singing, his passionate caring for people, justice, and music. I just sit here, tears streaming. So sorry to read that he has died. It's been too long since I've seen him, and now I won't. Oh Damn!

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Guest David Jones
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 10:17 PM

Goodbye Barry and safe harbor. I will miss you very much.
David

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Janie
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 11:13 PM

It still doesn't seem real. I keep waiting for him to post to this thread.

(And trying to imagine what he might have to say:)

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Peg
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 11:31 PM

So sad and shocking and sudden. We have lost a wonderful singer and a hell of a great human being.

The last time I saw Barry was at the Green Briar session this past spring. He'd gotten me into going to it this past year, even though I don't live in Boston anymore. But when I was commuting to teach he said it was a good singers' session and he'd like to see me there, so being the friendly sort he is he got the session leader to let me sing one so I could get my "foot in the door"--I always appreciated how supportive Barry was of other peoples' singing.

First met him in the days of the Boston Singers' Club; then when that disbanded, I kept seeing him at various places; Barry got around! there was Mudcat and the huge house party Barry and Justine hosted. Then Old Songs and random sessions in Boston. He kept trying to get me to go to the Getaway, and I really wish I had. he asked if I was going to Old Songs this year as there was a young singer he thought I'd really like (Elizabeth Laprelle). He said Justine didn't like camping much anymore so I invited them to stay at our house near Altamont when Old Songs came around, though in the end they didn't make it.

I remember visiting him when he was in hospital, in rough shape waiting for his transplant. He looked kind of miserable and I thought the best thing to do would be to get him to sing, but he wouldn't sing unless I did. I didn't know many sea chanteys at the time but I got him to join me in General Tayor and some others I can't recall. It was hilarious the way the nurses kept poking their heads in the door suddenly to see what all the racket was.

Barry gave me a ride home after that Monday session at the Green Briar. It was an "off night" with people wandering off and having conversations and not really listening when songs were being sung, and he was a bit annoyed because he knew I didn't get to come there very often. But we still had fun, he introduced me to some new friends. I can't recall what we talked about in the car. I assumed I'd see him again within a few months. Barry was a Facebook pal and often commented on my updates. When I announced I'd be back teaching in Boston again this coming spring, he piped up "On Mondays???". This made me happy, looking forward to singing again and hearing songs from Barry's massive repertoire.

Despite being gifted with some extra years of life he may not have had, given his health problems at the time of his transplant, Barry prevailed and jumped right back into his full life. I took it for granted he'd be around for many years. I will miss this kind, generous man, his lusty voice, his no-nonsense politics, his straight talk about just about everything, his easy friendship, his love of music and zeal for life. I am sad but I am inspired to go forward by his bright light and big heart.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: KathyW
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 11:43 PM

I met Barry for the first time at the Mystic Sea Music Festival this year after a short email exchange. He was extremely kind and helpful to this newcomer. And then I heard him sing-- what a voice! My husband and I became instant fans. I've been plotting to somehow hear him in a formal performance ever since Mystic, and must admit that part of my sorrow at his passing is that now will never be.

I am grateful that I had the chance to meet him. My condolences to his family and friends.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Liam's Brother
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 11:52 PM

I took a drive up to Boston when Barry was waiting for his liver transplant about a decade ago. His story was a very moving one and he seemed like such a great guy who was undoubtedly concerned for his family, probably bored beyond belief and most likely could use a little company. We talked for an hour and a half and, given the odd circumstances, probably revealed more about ourselves than 2 guys ordinarily would. It was very enjoyable and time well spent.

We met Barry many times. If we'd lived anywhere near him, we probably would've seen him a couple of times a week because he and my wife really hit it off.

Friday's news was totally shocking. Anyone following Barry's "mountain railroad" life would have imagined a different end for a guy who kept so many of us sitting on the edge of our chairs for so long. But, when you have to go, waiting for someone to bring you ice is a gentle way. I'm grateful he had it easy. I'm extremely sorry for Justine and the kids that it was so sudden.   

Barry must have had a million friends. It was snowing to beat the band for 240 of the 280 miles going up and back. The funeral parlor was a very busy place yesterday afternoon. We saw a lot of Barry's sea and Irish music buddies. Many are Mudcatters of course.

There were 2 or 3 boards with lots of photographs posted on them. Barry in a tuxedo, looking so relaxed that you'd think he was born in one. Barry, in a manly handsome pose, looking like a movie star. Barry in shorts with his shirt hanging out. Many with Barry singing, no doubt very loudly in all of them.

In my experience, Barry was always positive and with a large reservoir of stoicism. If he ever knocked anyone, it was always over quickly with a wave of his hand as if to say, "You've got to consider where it comes from." He was a great, enthusiastic person. You could run into him at 2 AM in Mystic looking to see where the craic was. A hard guy to ignore and entirely loveable.

Farewell, old friend. You were a treasure.

Dan Milner

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Peg
Date: 19 Oct 09 - 11:52 PM

I don't use my Mudcat mail that much; just went in to check it and the last message in there is from Barry, a response to a "Happy Yule" note I sent him last December...

"Happy Yule to you too Peg
So I've been to maybe 2 sessions, where've you been. Let me know when you next plan to be there & I'll give extra effort to get there.
Have a good upcoming year
All my best
Barry

It'll be good to see & hear you again"

Ah, my friend, what I would give for that to happen.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Janie
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 12:46 AM

Barry seemed to me to be that rare gem of a person who was comfortable in his own skin.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Genie
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 01:05 AM

OMG, Dani! Thanks for reminding me of "Fatima"!!

I remember that Mummer's play well -- and "Fatima," especially! Sooo lovely and coy! LOL

I just didn't remember "her" name till you reminded us.

Genie

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Peter Kasin
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 01:44 AM

This is just too sad. I first met Barry at a singing session in an upstairs room at a Boston pub in '98 or '99, which Barry told me about after Riggy introduced me to him through email. He sang "London Julie," which was new to me, and I was really taken by the soul he put into it. We spent some time talking, singing, having dinner on one of his forays to the SF Bay Area, and he always had such interesting and pointed things to say about singing and the music scene, such as his dislike of singing sessions revolving around RUS, which he called "Rise Up Screaming." He was a storehouse of West Indies and African American work songs. In 2001 he participated in a festival workshop at SF Maritime National Historical Park on "Chanteys cousins: Work songs from ashore," and, as he had done so many times, just enthralled the audience with the power and soul of his singing. With his permission, I named a newsletter from SF Maritime after his CD; "Fathom This!" We had just emailed each other about a week and a half ago, about Ken Schatz joining him and Neil, and about possibly coming to SF next year. I got to see him rarely, but I will miss him. He was a great guy.

What a tremendous influence he was on chantey singing. Go to a festival or chantey sing, and you will most likely hear "I learned this one from Barry Finn."

Chanteyranger

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: My guru always said
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 06:31 AM

So good to see and read these memories here! Our 'brief encounter' with Barry and Justine just a few weeks ago gave us glimpse of how special Barry was and I just wish that we'd been able to know him longer. During our visit there were many times when I had questions to ask Barry about his songs and his life, and like others I'd thought we had plenty of time to catch up and cement our friendship. I, too, feel priviliged to have known him, even for such a brief time. My thoughts are with his family and all the friends he made through his life.
Hil

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Lighter
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 11:00 AM

Very sad news. I knew Barry Finn only from his performances on YouTube. They are artistically right, and done with great spirit.

He helped keep shanty-singing alive.

I add my condolences to the others here.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: George Papavgeris
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 11:24 AM

I've been away in the Netherlands for the scattering of the ashes of our friend Johnny Collins and return to find this... I am stunned.

Barry was indeed a treasure and I will miss him. My condolences to those close to him.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Natalie Finn
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 12:24 PM

Thank you all for posting. Not to relive the trauma and retell a sad tale, however... I took Barry (my dad) into the hospital on Wednesday. Before he left he took a shower, ate a popsicle, prepared a glass of ginger ale, and lastly, he posted that he wasn't feeling well and would not be able to make whichever music event he was planning to attend. He described "flue-like symptoms" but I didn't have the heart to correct him this time. He would have me read his posts as a spell-check/grammar-check.
When Justine saw him in the hospital, he asked her to have me update his facebook page and keep you guys posted that he would be out soon and singing as soon as possible. He had print outs of songs he was learning in his pocket to take with him.

He went peacefully with no physical suffering.

This is the first I have been on this site and was glad to see so many posts about my father. I've met some of you at NEFFA, Old Songs, The Press Room, and many more festivals/sessions/parties I was "dragged" to as a kid and later, unexpectedly, came to enjoy.
The posted lyrics are very appreciated. I cried (for the millionth time of course) at "Shiver Me Timbers". It is one of my personal favorite songs partly because it's beautiful and partly because it has always reminded me of my dad. "You Wouldn't Know It To Look At Me" is another that brings tears to my eyes... and I never cry! (Unlike Barry who apparently cried at his own wedding... I always thought the crying was a recent development due to medication. Don't let that fool you)
The whole community of music always meant so much to him and we as a family recognize your names because he was always talking about another great musician he had met or finally had a chance to meet. The wake and the funeral both ended with a song, of course. It was the first time in my life that someone stood up to sing and it wasn't my father. I listened for his voice in the crowd outside the church and it was the first time I realized that he wouldn't be back... we all know he wouldn't willingly pass up an opportunity to stand up and sing.

At the funeral a friend of mine had mentioned that he just always seemed so happy. Obviously it's different living with someone, except Barry. He was the same all the time. Happy and full of energy. The only time he didn't sing was at the dinner table, and that was only because it was a mostly well respected rule in the Finn household.
Finally reading these and the facebook posts brings a smile to my face (between the tears of course)and I am grateful to have so many people offer such kind words. It makes everyday a little less difficult.

Thank you again for your kinds words, thoughts, and prayers.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Peg
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 01:52 PM

Natalie, thank you so much for your heartfelt words. How good to know that living with Barry at home was every bit as enjoyable as hanging out with him in his leisure moments. My sympathies to you, your brother, Justine and your other family members who have had to say goodbye to this great man. He'll live on in many hearts, and his songs will be remembered with joy.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Janie
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 02:11 PM

I echo what Peg said, Natalie. Thank you, and my heartfelt sympathy.

Janie

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 02:31 PM

Hello, Natalie, and thanks so much for posting. I remember meeting you at your house many years ago, when your dad hosted one of the first Mudcat gatherings (with surprise guest Joe Offer!). I was happy to meet you all, and to share with your mom and dad so many stories- I have a son with "issues" like your brother, and it felt as though "You wouldn't know it to look at me" was written for my Dylan.
That wasn't our only connection, and I so valued the few times we were able to sing together or share our lives.
Go well, Barry. And to the Finn family remember:
Love never dies.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Gloucesterman
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 03:25 PM

Natalie,
Thank you for your post. I was the guy up on the wall leading Seaman's Hymn outside the church. I felt it necessary to send him off with that particular song. I hope I wasn't being presumptuous. Barry was a treasure to the sea music community and he will be sorely missed.
Blessings on you and your family
David Coffin

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Nancy King
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 03:30 PM

Natalie, thanks so much for your post. I guess you can tell that there are lots of folks out there who cared a great deal about your Dad. I met your Mom only a couple of times, and I don't think I ever met you, but I loved your Dad very much. I only saw him once or twice a year at music gatherings, but I considered him one of my very dearest friends. He was just that kind of guy -- kind, generous, smart, fun, supportive, and of course, talented. I've been thinking of him constantly since I heard the awful news, and I know I'll remember him always.

Nancy King

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: ClaireBear
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 03:47 PM

Natalie, thank you for that account and for posting to our thread. Like so many others I met Barry only a few times but counted him among my dearest friends. Although I could not get there to see him off -- having just blown my travel budget on the Getaway where, thanks to whatever gods there be, I saw your father one last time -- from far-off California I send your family strength and affection now.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: jacqui.c
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 04:06 PM

Thank you Natalie - we were unable to get to Barry's funeral but I was thinking about him and his family on Monday.

Your dad was one of the best. Always 'up' and so full of life and energy. It didn't matter who you were, Barry had time for you. He will live on in many hearts. I always looked forward to any gathering at which Barry would be and particularly enjoyed spending some time with him and Ken last year in the UK, at Scarborough.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Hollowfox
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 07:52 PM

Thank you, Natalie, for letting us know. I only met him a couple of times at Old Songs, after the organ transplant. I was amazed that he was there so soon after something like that, and with so much energy. I wish we'd been able to visit a bit more, but I'm happy to have just met him. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and the rest of your family.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: David Ingerson
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 07:52 PM

I count myself lucky to have met Barry less than three weeks ago at the Getaway. It was a great pleasure to share a few songs with him in the short time that we were together. What a joy to hear him sing! When rafters needed ringing he was the one for the job.

What a shock to find that he's gone so suddenly. I am saddened beyond words.

David

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: HuwG
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 07:54 PM

Very sad to hear of his loss.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,rumanci
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 08:17 PM

My deepest condolences to his family and friends. I enjoyed so much hearing him sing at The Getaway a few years back. THAT'S how shanties should be sung !   I know the qualities of the man himself meant so much to so many mutual friends and how much he'll be rightly missed by so many people and I'm very glad I met and read him and heard him for myself to know why.

rum

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: bbc
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 09:12 PM

Natalie,

What a pleasure to hear from you, even at this sad time. As you can tell, your dad was well-loved. I didn't see him in person very often, but I've known him many years through Mudcat. For many of us, we have made true friends through this community & I surely feel that way about your dad. We exchanged notes, I've prayed for him & your family at various times, &, when we've had the chance to meet in person, we hugged. I'm pretty sure he introduced me to your mom, one year at the Old Songs Festival in Albany. The Internet has given a new dimension to friendship. Your dad will be sorely missed, but never forgotten! Love to you, your mom, & your brother.

Barbara Carr

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Gorgeous Gary
Date: 20 Oct 09 - 10:06 PM

Finally getting around to posting. I didn't know Barry as well as many of the folks here, despite seeing him at several Getaways. But I always enjoyed listening to him belt out a song. I'm saddened to hear of his passing and send hugs and condolences to all his friends and family.

-- Gary

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: SaltyWalt
Date: 21 Oct 09 - 02:19 AM

It took me three hours to read all these postings last night.

Everytime I went to post, someone wrote something so incredible that I said "well, THAT caps it doesn't it."
Then more people who knew Barry showed up.
And more.

I wanted to write something. I wanted to offer condolances.
Especially to the family left behind.
Spouse, children, even singing partner Neil.

A lot of it has been said.
Some of the most amazing bits were not repeated. So look for them.

I noticed something, and it got me thinking.
I knew Barry from Mystic and Chantey sings on the East Coast. He lived there exclusively in my mind. But some of the most incredible entries I noticed were from friends of mine that I almost never see at Mystic, who In my mind exist almost exclusively with me in SF.

It reminds me of how much I never knew about him, and how much I wanted to know him better. How much I could've learned from him.

It got me to reflect on that limited relationship.

I remember how much his "unorthodox" style of singing threw me. How stragely brash for one so sweet he seemed. How opinionated he sounded when schooling someone on a songs origin (It put me off at first). And how hartfelt, and sincere would be his retraction if he found he mispoke. (It won me back).

I think we've all said something (at one time or another) parroting a pet theory about a song or our own personal musings as fact. Some are tentative, and offer caveat while doing it, some sin boldly and never look back (a lot), and only a very few would go out of their way to attempt to retract an incorrect utterence for the sake of artistic integrity. No one louder than Barry.

What a gift to have given his children . What a legacy for all of us to aspire to share in.

What a force in this forum.
What a unique voice.
Silenced.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Bupkes
Date: 21 Oct 09 - 02:47 AM

Walt Whitman would have loved Barry and his singing. For my own consolation, let me write out some lines from the end of Song of Myself, sharing imagining Barry's voice as the great Narrator:

I too am not a bit tamed . . . . I too am untranslatable,
I sound my barbaric yawp over the roofs of the world.
É
I depart as air . . . . I shake my white locks at the runaway sun,
I effuse my flesh in the eddies and drift it in lacy jags.

I bequeath myself to the dirt to grow from the grass I love,
If you want me again look for me under your bootsoles.

You will hardly know who I am or what I mean,
But I shall be good health to you nevertheless,
and filter and fibre your blood.

Failing to fetch me at first keep encouraged,
Missing me one place search another,
I stop some where waiting for you.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Justine
Date: 21 Oct 09 - 09:22 AM

Dear friends of Barry - many of you I know, many only recognize by name or by the stories Barry told about you. The tributes are a gift that will keep Barry's spirit alive for me, Natalie, and Gabe. I cannot thank you enough. Barry belonged to all of us and he made sure there was always enough to go around. I still can't fathom how he fit in all the things remembered above. To us at home, it seemed he was always here. And thank you for sharing the burden of losing him with us. My heart is aching for my Barry.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Tinker
Date: 21 Oct 09 - 09:53 AM

I got to spend some amazing hours with BArry headed to and from Getaway this year. When both cars broke down and the check for government contract work was moving with creeping breaucratic speed, Barry didn't seem to think twice about stopping on the Jersey turnpike at 1 in the morning to pick me up on his way south.

He had just left his 40th High School reunion and regalled me with stories and remembrances through the night. He borrowed Natalile's GPS and really wasn't sure how it worked, but trusted it to get us through the night --- even when it sent us into Baltimore way before either of our memories felt it should.

So at 4 in the morning we snaked through the streets of Baltimore, with no clue where or why this was going to get us to West River. Finally at a light a cruiser pulled up next to us and Barry immediately put my window down -- "Ask him if this I'll get us to West River"   The cop was clueless, but two turns later we were back on the highway. ( The GPS wanted to avoid the tunnel toll) Barry never missed a beat or broke a sweat. He had no question the road would take us where we needed to be. Full steam ahead. No need for tight control.

We talked kids ( and pride) and the fun he's had over the last year as Finn and Haddie expanded and then added Ken. I've never met Neil, but know Ken and yeah, he loved singing with you both.

I've been going through old Getaway tape and trying to figure out how to reformat. There are bits of "piss" between him and Mick, The 2 penny whore song with MZ Mary

Kathy

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Ferrara
Date: 21 Oct 09 - 12:16 PM

Justine, I have begun to realize something. Since only a few of us could get to New Hampshire, sharing our grief here is our way of holding a wake for Barry. These memories bring smiles, they bring tears; they help us realize the true dimensions of a friend we saw only in a few of his many aspects and dimensions; they put images of Barry even more firmly in our hearts, to hold there forever.

Bill and I send our deepest sympathy to you and your family for your loss of a dear and wonderful husband and father. You are so much in our thoughts now. I keep remembering the glow on Barry's face whenever he spoke of you, Natalie or Gabriel.

Rita

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Paul_Schurr_PSG_NY
Date: 21 Oct 09 - 01:01 PM

I've deleted the sad stuff I've written, and I leave this story as a hug for Justine and a smile for Barry's son and daughter.

Last June at Mystic, not much before sunrise, our small group slipped from shanties and maritime songs into doo wop. We gleefully killed off the dead teenagers. We lost our teen loves. We waked up little Suzy. We dreamed. Any lyric that John Roberts didn't have, Barry could supply. And the other way around too. We all took our turns, but the two of them were as happy as two people can be. There was a glow about them. All of us sang and laughed, laughed and sang. Singing with Barry that night and all the other nights and afternoons, in halls and on sidewalks, from Mystic to Portsmouth... it was a privilege that will fill my heart and soul for many years to come. His legacy is rich with harmonies and warm with smiles. His is a life to celebrate. Thank you, Barry, for being my friend.

Paul

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 21 Oct 09 - 01:11 PM

Every day I come into the thread, read a little more to weep a little and laugh a little. To feel a bit sad for what I missed in not meeting this man in real life. And then grateful for what people share and the links to other threads.

All the near and dear ones to Barry are still in my thoughts.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Big Mick
Date: 21 Oct 09 - 06:06 PM

There is a custom of looking for the voice of those that got away in those left behind. That will not be a problem with our Barry. All of us that loved him, and that is virtually anyone who ever met him, will see to that. But none have honored that tradition more than Natalie and Justine.

Natalie, you are the product of two amazing people. And you wear it well, my dear. Your comments about your Da left me happy and sad all at the same time. I am proud to "know" you, and I hear your father's voice in you.

Justine, after reading your notes for Barry's eulogy, and then the post above, you have reduced me to tears of gratitude that our friend had you in his life. You are a remarkable woman, and fully deserving of the love that Barry gave you. And he is a lucky man to have trod the path with you.

Hugs to each of you,

Mick Lane

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: stallion
Date: 21 Oct 09 - 06:23 PM

i was copied in to an exchange of e-mails twixt Charley Noble and Martin Bartlett, it had me in stitches cos I was there had almost forgotten the incidents, anyway I wouyld like to share Martins memories with you all.............

> A moving song, Charlie. What is the tune?
>
> Guess what I've been singing since I heard the sad news?
> ......."...Bold Riley-O has gone away" !
>
> I've several fond memories of Barry, my favourite being when our early departure from the post-Mystic party in New Maldon (?) was delayed by at least five minutes, as, like the Ancient Mariner, he pinned us up against the veranda railing to regale us with a ballad he had just written concerning an event that took place during the second world war. Do you know it? I would love to learn it in his memory. The other was a sotte voce comment by, I think, one of the Johnson Girls. I was standing near the entrance to the late night shanty sing when, from the other end of the room, that unmistakable rasping voice rent the air with, as I remember, appropriately rough language. The response from my right was, "Oh, Christ!". I can think of no other singer capable of evoking instant blasphemy!
>
> Kind Regards
> Martin Bartlett

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: catspaw49
Date: 21 Oct 09 - 06:44 PM

Justine and Natalie ......It was wonderful to hear from you both.

As you can see many here too are grieving and at least to some degree sharing your loss. I believe that as time passes more will be added to this thread.....a lot more. Its not uncommon for that to happen here as special thoughts come to this strange collection of folks known as The Mudcat Cafe. I would never begin to think of infringing on your private life, but we invite you to do the same. Barry was indeed much loved and respected here and these threads often help fill the holes left in our hearts.

But see, I really don't believe great friends can leave a hole in your heart because it quickly fills with memories and stories and thoughts and laughter that was a part of them when they were with us. Maybe that's all out hearts really are.......a repository of the best reminiscences of those wonderful friends.

Please come back and see us sometimes.....anytime......


Pat (Spaw)

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Barnacle
Date: 21 Oct 09 - 09:00 PM

Justine, I don't think we ever met but wanted to make sure you knew how much you are in our hearts and minds and prayers; how heartsick and filled with disbelief we were when we heard the news; how loved and respected Barry was for the musician and person he was.

Hugs

Barnacle -- Tim Reilly, Jon Cannon, Mary Audette, and Everett Brown.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Janie
Date: 21 Oct 09 - 10:10 PM

I'm struggling to put something into words, if you will bear with me. Feel free to skip to the next post if your eyes glaze.

Like 'Spaw said, we are real people in real community here. I knew Barry from Mudcat and the Getaways. I have been somewhat stunned at the level of loss and grief I feel, as I would not count myself as a close or intimate friend. In spite of that, like so many others here, I held him very dear, thought of him often with great affection, and when I would see him, it was like getting together with some one I had known all my life, even though we actually knew virtually nothing of one another's life histories or experiences. It is clear many, many among us experienced Barry in the same way.

I think that is because what Barry offered to one and all was his authentic self, without front, facade or mask. So to know him at all was know who it was there in front of you. No games. No airs. No pretense. No desire to impress or to be impressed.

Barry was one of the most real people ever I have met. And he was real in every situation and circumstance. Whether he had known you for years, or whether he just met you. Whether he was in cyberspace on a thread, pm or e-mail, or whether it was 3-D. Few, if any, of us posting here would know Barry if we did not have that common interest in music. But I surmise that if Barry had never sung a note, or was a lousy singer who loved the music anyway, most of us would be saying what we are saying, and grieving as we are grieving because of who he was. Not because of what he did.

Several people have talked about a sense of his voice joining in. LEJ put it in chanty form. Last night, out singing to the stars like I do, one song after another that Barry sang came up - usually just the choruses - and there was this sense of Barry's voice there - as others have noted. What a great heart and soul that scrappy fellow had - and still has. It shined through his music. He was a great performer, but he wasn't performing. The music didn't make the man. The man made the music. (It may be, though I don't know, that music provided a pathway in the direction of his authentic self.) That is one powerful soulheart that lives in the heart of so many other diverse people.
.

Barry clearly touched, influenced, and affected many, many people through his authenticity and personhood, often through the vehicle of his music. I don't think he was on a mission to do so. That is simply the reality.

When I said in a much earlier post that he lives on in the hearts and minds of many, I meant that quite literally. He has influenced so very many people. So we are changed from having known him. And those we influence will also be changed by our own changes. I call that immortality.

Justine, you were at the center of his life, as were Natalie and Gabe. I suspect you are made of the same stuff else the two of you would not have been together 23 years. Thank you for sharing him with us. The fact that there was enough of him to go so generously around suggests you have the same great heart and authenticity, and that his family was an everflowing fountain of sustenance to him.   I do not want to even imagine the hole in your own heart torn by the loss of the physical reality of Barry. May these many memories and thoughts of shared loss, and especially the celebration of Barry here bring you some comfort and peace, even in the midst of your sorrow.

And maybe even a few good belly laughs.

Reading back, this is an awkward post, and I'm not sure I have succeeded in putting words to what is running through my mind and heart.

Justine, Natalie and Gabriel,

I'm not articulate enough to add my own words of comfort and condolences that others here have written, but I gladly echo them.

Blessed be.

Janie

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Janie
Date: 21 Oct 09 - 10:56 PM

A correction to my last post. LEJ's song, that thread, and all the contributions regarding word, rythym and tune have really moved me. But it was Charlie Noble's adaptation of the Smith chanty that I meant to reference regarding the "presence" of Barry, as well as the assorted posts from others who sang regularly with Barry in sessions at places like the Press Room.

Janie

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: stallion
Date: 22 Oct 09 - 02:57 AM

As a note to Martin's recollection on the Mystic night time shanty blast, as I remember it, the rough language was a greeting to us as we came in the door, and the comment was as much about "what have I done putting this lot together" than Barry's greeting.
The song was about a British Convoy that the Germans had warned Britain not to send and they sent it any way and it got sunk, he was going to send the words, he did sing it to Dick Miles at the back of the stage at Scarborough Seafest but I don't know if he got a copy of the words.
I also have his signature on my Mystic Tee shirt, and you may guess, suitably appropriate rough language.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: SINSULL
Date: 22 Oct 09 - 09:33 AM

You put it well, Janie. Whenever Barry walked in my front door, the entire room lit up. We all knew we were in for some great music and tall tales.
Helen Schneyer's "Only Remembered" keeps going through my head along with Justine's "Never Seal".
And the picture of Barry all akimbo on the floor with a dagger of wood threatening to impale him while someone tried to explain that he had been sitting on a tea table...
I miss his beautiful blue eyes.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: ranger1
Date: 22 Oct 09 - 07:52 PM

I have so many memories of Barry that I've been trying to put into words, but haven't been able to yet. I will say now that I will miss long car journeys with him (even though his driving scared the crap out of me), because you never knew what he was going to sing next.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: KT
Date: 23 Oct 09 - 01:53 AM

I've been out of town, with no computer, and just returned. I've come to this thread several times and still feel suspended in disbelief. A few weeks ago, at the Getaway, I had the privilege of being in several sessions with Barry. I found myself absolutely captivated by him. Enchanted. I suppose everyone who's known/heard him sing, feels much the same way. I recorded a couple of the sessions and listened to them on the plane on the way home with great delight. Though I hardly knew him, I'd come to admire and respect him through this place and my brief encounters with him at Getaways.

To his family, my sincere, heartfelt, condolences. To Barry, my thanks.    KT

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Micca
Date: 23 Oct 09 - 07:16 AM

I have been trying all week to write something about Barry that didnt sound like a rehash of what went before in this thread, after all he is a "One Off" and it shouldnt be that difficult to say something nice and anodyne about him, how much we miss him and what a joy it was to know him. but it just would not come, Because what ever Barry was he was not anodyne or commonplace. So I decided to just say some of the things I enjoyed about him over the 9+ years I have "known" him (I put that in quotes because I can't really say I "Knew" him in the usual sense of spending a lot of time in his company) I realised after a while, that "what you saw was what you got" with Barry , That took a while to sink in, he really was what he appeared to be, A Real Nice Guy, with no hidden agendas and willing (if not almost anxious) to help and befriend.
He was a phenomenal Shanty singer, I dont think I've heard many that were his equal and certainly none better in the 40+ years I have been hearing shantys.
He had a wicked sense of humour, dry and restrained at times, pure hilariously irreverent and low and earthy too. I Saw much of this and learned a lot about Barry The Man on a hectic 5 hour journey back from the Getaway (with Mary and Tami) during which we exchanged "sailor yarns" and expieriences of "life at sea" and in general.
I sat with him at the Press Room almost every time I was there ( he asked me to let him know when I was visiting in advance so he could try and be there) and he was always pulling my leg gently and very supportive of my writing.
We commiserated with each other and with Crane Driver for none of us winning the songwriting contest at Scarborough (UK) but he said how could he complain to fail in such company was an honour!!
What else can I say about him, I liked and admired him as a person, I was awed by his skills and knowledge and abilities as a singer and I will, and do, miss him.
I send my condolences to his family ,Justine, Natalie and Gabe, (Of whom he always spoke to me as If I knew them )
His friends and everyone who met him will remember him with Joy and pleasure and feel better for having known him and what better memorial could a man have,or ask for.

I must down to the sea again, to the vagrant gypsy life,
To the gull's way and the whale's way where the wind's like a whetted knife;
And all I ask is a merry yarn from a laughing fellow-rover
And quiet sleep and a sweet dream when the long trick is over

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: RoyH (Burl)
Date: 23 Oct 09 - 08:01 AM

I was in America when I heard this dreadful news. Only a few weeks before we had met for the first time while Barry was over her here, and became firm friends straight away. I remember how touched he was by my wifes reaction to his song about his son. We had looked forwrd to meeting again in the USA. A very sad lost. Condolences to his family from my wife and I, Rest in Peace Barry. We only knew you a short while but will never forget you.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST
Date: 23 Oct 09 - 06:44 PM

Mike O'Leary-Johns....................
I dont "Tune in " to the Mudcat These days so I have only just recieved the news of Barry's passing.A friend of mine, Tony Fraser,
Phoned me about 30mins ago to tell me.
We met Barry for the first time in 1997 at Mystic.Became friends instantly...I would imagine that has been everyones experience ,he was that sort of Man. I loved the way he sang ; driving the songs along with such feeling.But it was a few years later again at Mystic that he blew me away ; with the song he wrote himself about his son.
I am so glad that in July of this year when he was in Wales ; he sang it for me again at a session in a Pub on the Gower Peninsular.
Since we met first he has been a Good friend.I only wish that he had made a recording of it at some time.It is a Wonderfull Song.
I cannot think of anything to say , I just find the news hard to take just as everyone else.
So I will just send my regards to his family , at this time of great loss.
One thing for sure Barry was One of the Good Guys........ Mike

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Charley Noble
Date: 23 Oct 09 - 07:14 PM

Mike-

Would this be the song by Barry that you had in mind:

"You Wouldn't Know It To Look At Me"
                   (Tune: Australian, Trad. "One Of The Has Beens")

"You're not listening to me are you deaf in both ears.
Don't you see what you've caused, have you been blind all these years.
Could you just give an answer, so I know you're not dumb.
For Christ's sake, you bird brain has a cat got your tongue"?

Chorus:
I'm as cute as any other kid, I can run, jump & shout.
You wouldn't know it to look at me, at times I can't work things out.
I'm not stupid, I'm not lazy, I try very hard.
With a little compassion I could go pretty far.

Well, school is a torture, the teasing won't quit.
My thoughts go off track and my aide has a fit.
There are some things I excel in, so much that I'm bored,
You wouldn't know it to look at me, it takes all that I'm worth.

The kids scorn & laugh at me, I don't have a friend.
You can feel my heart break, I wonder when this will end.
The mistreatment & abuse I take, it's really a crime,
But I'm told to ignore it, though it happens all of the time.

Chorus:

I know it's hard on my family, I can't change a thing.
The aunts & uncles blame it on my folks & say it's poor upbringing.
The love & affection others get all the time,
I only hear people yell at me, when I ask where is mine.

I never feel comfort, no shoulder, no hug.
My support system's gone, they' to me, was pulled out like a rug.
No one understands me, can't they just read the signs
Most choose to ignore them, it's as if they've gone blind

Chorus:

I may be mildly autistic or just plain O.C.D.
I may twitch with Tourette's, or have A.D.D.
If you see me cross my eyes, instead of my T's
You wouldn't know it to look at me that I have special needs.

Chorus:

Copyright Barry Finn

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST
Date: 23 Oct 09 - 07:16 PM

I can tell the truth now-- I always thought that Barry was the best singer we had.

We can all sing a little, but Barry was different.

This one is going to take a little time.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Janie
Date: 23 Oct 09 - 07:40 PM

Guest 7:16



{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{My Best Mudcat Hug}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Charley Noble
Date: 24 Oct 09 - 01:12 PM

I've just been doing some editing on the C. Fox Smith Anthology and ran across this verse in a poem called "Memories" which belongs in this thread:

"Friends . . . they go," said Murphy, "the false an' the true,
They all go at the finish, the same as the ships do;
They go like a spree that's ended or a last year's song,
But the friends a man remembers, they're his own his life long."

Notes:

From Ships and Folks, edited by Cicely Fox Smith, published by Elkin Mathews, London, UK, © 1920, p. 67.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: The Sandman
Date: 24 Oct 09 - 06:57 PM

I met Barry at Scarborough sea fest last year, it was the first time we had met.
Barry was a fine singer who was also very knowledgeable, I enjoyed his company.I am saddened and shocked by this news.Dick Miles

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: semi-submersible
Date: 25 Oct 09 - 02:36 AM

Another extraordinary human being I'll never get to meet. All who knew him know what a trail he's left behind to guide us still.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,guest - Tony Frasr
Date: 25 Oct 09 - 12:00 PM

Very sad news. I can only endorse Mike O'Leary-Johns comments. Barry was a fine singer and a lovely person. I feel honoured to have known him and proud to call him a friend.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: TRUBRIT
Date: 25 Oct 09 - 09:19 PM

I have been putting off posting because everyone seemed to know him better and have something more special to say.

I met Barry three years ago when I went - for the first time - to the Getaway---jacqui and I drove down, and Sins and Ranger 1 drove in her car. We were late getting to Barry's -- i was following my GPS---when Sins called to see where we were she put him on the phone and he was asking me questions about where we were.......I gave him the name of roads and heard him say to Sins -- I don't know where they are - how can I not know where they are........! Esmerelda (GPS) will get us there, I said, just wait.

That night we stopped at Tink's -- after dinner out we sat down in a circle. I was still really new to this -- didn't know people just sat around and sang. The song went round the circle and came to Barry who threw his head back and sang 'Reuben Ranzo'.........I couldn't believe what I was hearing and everytime I heard him sing after that, I could never believe what I was hearing.

Barry - didn't know you as long as many folks did but was proud to know you and call you friend and will miss you.......your family should be, and obviously is, so proud of you.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: GUEST,Roger in Baltimore
Date: 27 Oct 09 - 01:53 PM

I will miss Barry at every Getaway of the future. He and I found a shared interest in Prison Work Songs and we bantered quite a bit on the early Mudcat. Barry had a party for Mudcatters one year at his house in Vermont, I believe. Marge and I drove up from Baltimore to attend. It was very uncharacteristic of me to drive that far to meet a bunch of people I only knew via the Internet. It was probably about 3:00 PM when we got there. Of course the party had been going on for a while by then. I grabbed a seat in the song circle between Kendall and BigChuck. I stayed until after Midnight and I think I left my seat once to take a restroom break. Marge spend some time with Justine and I met Natalie and Gabriel. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. Marge and I spent the night in a motel and headed back to Maryland.

I also had the honor of sharing a workshop on Prison Songs with Barry at the Prince William Getaway. His was the first voice I heard as I pulled up to the park. Yes, with Barry there was no holding back. He was fully involved in his music. Barry was also quite a scholar. He was well-read about the Work Songs and Sea Shanteys and the work that went with them. He had a prodigious memory.

My condolences to his family. I'm sure we will sing for him at the next Getaway.

Roger in Baltimore

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: bbc
Date: 27 Oct 09 - 09:32 PM

Very nice to hear from you, Roger. I remember you very fondly from my only Get-Away. Your words reflect the wonderful qualities so many of us treasured in Barry. I've got his cd in the car & I'm listening to it as I travel to & from work.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Jeri
Date: 27 Oct 09 - 09:57 PM

In New Hampshire, Roger.
I have strong memories of that party. Loads of people: local folkies, Mudcatters and local Mudcatters, the new Finn dog, hooking up to the UK on HearMe (or whatever it was back then), people who came from all over and Natalie playing piano. I remember Barry running around being host and not getting to sing much.
I drove back for breakfast the next morning.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: katlaughing
Date: 27 Oct 09 - 10:08 PM

That must be the one Night Owl went to? She told she'd met Justine and Barry years ago, but I forget where, just know it was a Mudcat get-together.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Jeri
Date: 27 Oct 09 - 10:33 PM

She was there, kat.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Art Thieme
Date: 27 Oct 09 - 11:45 PM

Respect and admiration for Mr. Finn --- That is what I feel now after reading much of this thread. You all have allowed me to know Barry---even though I never met him. Here at Mudcat, he always said very nice things to me---brilliant insights on so many topics exuded from his posts.

Thanks to you all for sharing your friend.

Art

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Mark Clark
Date: 28 Oct 09 - 12:53 PM

This is the first time I've seen the news. I saw the thread when Barry was in Hospital but missed news of his death. Barry was one of the very few Mudcatters I've actually met. I met him in Boston at an Irish bar where a bunch of folks were gathered to sing. I loved Barry's presentation of a song and effort he put into "getting it right."

And of course his posts here were usually something to look forward to.

RIP, Barry.

      - Mark

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: katlaughing
Date: 28 Oct 09 - 02:46 PM

Thanks, Jeri.

I echo what Art said.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Big Mick
Date: 28 Oct 09 - 06:41 PM

Mark, that bar was likely Paddy Burke's. The now defunct Boston Singers Circle met there. Dan Milner and I spent time there one night at Barry's invitation, and I came several times after that. It is a shame that the club doesn't exist anymore. We would meet up on the third floor in what looked like an old living room. It was a grand environment, and the scene of some nice memories. Rest in peace, Barry.

All the best,

Mick

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Mick Tems
Date: 29 Oct 09 - 06:46 AM

I haven't caught up with Mudcat for quite a while, and the sad news of Barry's death surprised and shocked me. It was only this year that Barry turned up at Llantrisant Club; he hitched a lift from Andrew McKay and Carole Etherton, and had been staying at their house in Llangennith after singing at The Halfpenny Folk Club. Jerry Epstein and Ralph Boddington were the guests at Llantrisant that night. Barry only sang two songs, but he held the floor with his magnetic, great delivery. Here's to a marvellous man - sail on, Barry, sail on.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Willie-O
Date: 29 Oct 09 - 08:50 AM

Too much loss.

I met Barry twice I guess--a great singer and a great guy, kind and encouraging. To say he was the mold for a traditional shanty singer doesn't really work--what he had is not reproducible.

Sadly, and late,
Bill

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: sciencegeek
Date: 29 Oct 09 - 11:50 AM

I can't type what I'm feeling right now.... after coming though so many health issues, I guess I figured this would just be one more to get through....

Mystic Sea Music weekend will be a chance for some of us to hug & cry.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Mark Clark
Date: 29 Oct 09 - 04:10 PM

Mick, You're quite right. It was Paddy Burke's and it was the Boston Singers Circle. I had posted here prior to a Boston business trip to see if any music was happening in the area. Barry came back with an invitation to drop in. Barry was great, both musically and in his willingness to include people. A great loss.

      - Mark

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Charley Noble
Date: 30 Oct 09 - 08:52 AM

Has it only been two weeks? It seems like a whole lot more time has gone past since Barry died. And I suppose a lot of that time was taken up with flashbacks, my own and those shared by others on this forum. And I deliberately created more memories by attending the Press Room in Portsmouth and Cameron's in Gloucester, two sea music sessions that Barry regularly attended.

I'm still feeling the loss, and my eyes still mist up occasionally when I try to say something. It's odd what can trigger the misting. But I have focused on what I can do to help reinforce the real contribution Barry made to our sea music community (not to mention his other musical interests).

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: stallion
Date: 30 Oct 09 - 06:22 PM

Charley, you are not alone, i have been trying to sing your song but the mist turns to a flood, I know there was so much more to do, selfish really, i feel like a kid who has had his toffee apple taken from him after only one lick

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Peter T.
Date: 30 Oct 09 - 07:18 PM

Just rearrived. Hard to fathom, he was so alive. Glad to have met him, glad to have been around the same planet at the same time.

yours,

Peter T.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Charley Noble
Date: 30 Oct 09 - 08:33 PM

Pete and Peter-

Maybe this is such a tough one because Barry tried so hard for many years, and was finally achieving some of the recognition that he so well deserved.

Oh, you ladies short an' ladies tall,
A-way, you roller bowler!
Oh, you ladies short an' ladies tall,
I love you one and all –
Timme, hey-rig-a-jig a-jig a ha-ha,
Good morning, ladies all!

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 31 Oct 09 - 05:36 AM

i feel like a kid who has had his toffee apple taken from him after only one lick

Exactly how I feel. Every time I see the Barry threads I feel like I have been punched in the chest.

I get a selfish, "it's just not fair" feeling, because I so wanted to meet and sing with this man.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Paul_Schurr_PSG_NY
Date: 01 Nov 09 - 12:46 PM

Charlene and I just spent the last hour or so singing with Barry on YouTube and looking over our archive of pictures from Mystic and other sings when we were together.

I hope more YouTube clips get posted.

Guantanamo Bay surprised me. I never heard him sing it until YouTube.

Does anyone have a clip of him singing the song about the coal supply ships that the Germans were blowing out of the water during WWII? This is another song that he wrote, I believe.

Barry's adaptation of Charlie's Yangtse River Shanty is another fine song.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Charley Noble
Date: 01 Nov 09 - 07:49 PM

Paul-

Good to hear from you.

I believe that the song about the WW 2 colliers was an existing poem that Neil adapted as a song.

I'll see if I can find a thread with the lyrics.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Charley Noble
Date: 01 Nov 09 - 07:51 PM

Paul-

Here's the link to the thread which Neil started with regard to Convoy CW-9: Click here for thread!

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: bbc
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 07:49 PM

I remember this session very fondly--

Press Room--2001

Duane & I were camping up in Maine & got a ride down with Naemanson & Charley Noble. What a group! Jeri, remember that thing about Mick & the little girl? He'll never live that one down! ;) Good music, good friends--I'll never forget.

fondly,


Barbara

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Jeri
Date: 02 Nov 09 - 08:21 PM

Wow! I had hair then! I remember I wasn't actually standing on the floor but sort of hanging from Mick and Brett. Barry was lean and tan--I think he was still doing roofing stuff then.

I don't remember about Mick and the little girl... well, I remember there was something, but I can't remember what.

I had some arguments with him, too. I considered him my friend through it all and respected him (if not always his opinion) always. He was one of those guys you could argue with, just like you would with a brother, and then you'd come away from it knowing that tomorrow you'd be singing and joking with him again. That's something that's rare. People aren't usually that generous.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: bbc
Date: 03 Nov 09 - 06:45 AM

Jeri, Mick drove in from a distance & was worn out. He made some comment about it, with a reference to a part of his anatomy which you, then, verified by touch. A little girl from a nearby table followed your example. Ah, the opportunities to corrupt the youth of America!

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: SINSULL
Date: 03 Nov 09 - 02:26 PM

That story grew like Topsy. The way I heard it is that ALL the ladies were patting Mick's butt to check out the thong and potato. The little girl walked up behind him and did the same. Why not?

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Tinker
Date: 03 Nov 09 - 02:42 PM

Seems only fair to go back to how Barry saw the whole thing....

Subject: RE: Mudcat Night at the Press Room
From: Barry Finn - PM
Date: 29 Jul 01 - 07:52 PM

Thanks bbc, Duane & Pene Azul for the pics.
It was really a great night of music. Emily B & Bill did a great rendition of (I think it's called) "Roll Her From The Wall" among other songs. Duane I didn't know you were fond of the shanties, I suspect you sang them out of pity for the us & like bbc didn't want to upset the mood. Very thoughtfull of you both but WE SING ANYTHING THAT'S EVEN CLOSE TO FOLK UP HERE, just so's you'll know the next time. I can vouche for the truthfullness of what bbc says & saw, except both Jeri & bbc took their sweet time at examining Big Mick's goods & the poor ruined little was rolling in her dad's lap with laughter (I think she was laughting at Mick's merchandise & not her own behavior), maybe she not passed repair. Turtle was fiddling all night in front of our table & I didn't get to meet her till the end (shucks). As usuall Mick comes through the door way past his bedtime wussing his waay to a beer in the hopes that he won't get asked to sing. Same for him as for Naemanson, no mercy. The regulars were the treat that they always are, full of song & warm welcomes. I don't think that Big Mick & Naemanson are gonna like the pictures, they show me as usuall holding up the big wussy guys, well I didn't want you all to see pictures of them face flat on the floor. Anyway I love to see this happen often. Barry


Mudcat night at the Press Room July 2001

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: bbc
Date: 03 Nov 09 - 05:53 PM

Aw, Tinker, thanks for that blast from the past. In Barry's own words--sweet! For the record, I only admit to following Jeri's bad example. Although, I will admit to being a bit sweet on the Big Mick (w/ no disrespect to his good wife).

Barbara

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Paul_Schurr_PSG_NY
Date: 07 Nov 09 - 09:00 AM

Charlie,

Thanks for the link to Convoy CW-9. What a story, and what a great song. If I thought I could sing this song half as well as Barry did, I'd learn it.

We have a sing at our house tonight. You can bet that Roller Bowler and Good-bye, My Lover, Good-bye will be sung. I think we will be honoring our lost friend and celebrating his life for a long time.

For sure, I'd throw a line around the Press Room gang and bring the whole lot of you to my house for the sing tonight... if only I could!

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Janie
Date: 13 Oct 12 - 01:49 PM

Found myself thinking of Barry this morning, playing Fathom This and listening to youtube videos. Took awhile to realize it is an anniversary reaction - Barry died 2 weeks after the 2009 Getaway.

Shanty for Barry Finn has been posted before, but I feel like linking again. Thanks Ernie and David.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: kendall
Date: 13 Oct 12 - 03:15 PM

We still miss him so much.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Bill D
Date: 13 Oct 12 - 03:56 PM

I often 'see' Barry when something happens that reminds me of something he used to sing or do. It's almost like a ghost... which I don't believe in.
   When the visions and memories get almost too much, I sorta 'hear' him saying.. "C'mon... I lived my life to the fullest, doing what I loved.... the least you can do is try to do the same."
... so... one thing I love is listening to Barry occasionally, and I do...

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Charley Noble
Date: 13 Oct 12 - 04:00 PM

As long as we still think about Barry and sing the songs he loved to sing, he is still with us.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: The Sandman
Date: 13 Oct 12 - 04:31 PM

I met him once,I am glad we met, a very good singer who was very knowledgeable about maritime music, I would have liked to have been able to know him better.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: ranger1
Date: 13 Oct 12 - 05:01 PM

My copy of Fathom This! Lives in my car. Whenever I'm at a stoplight next to someone with one of those obnoxious sub-woofers blasting rap music, into my CD player it goes and up goes the volume. It usually drowns them out, lol.

Barry was the kind of friend who looked out for you. We were coming back from an event once and I was dead broke. When the van stopped at a convenience store and everyone piled out for a snack, I just kind of stood in the background, hungry, but with my yankee pride stubbornly refusing to ask for handouts. Barry noticed I wasn't getting anything and figured out the reason why without my saying anything. He told me to get whatever I wanted and make sure it was enough and not to worry about it. He never said anything to any of the others we were traveling with, and any time after that, when we were traveling together, there were always extra sandwiches in his cooler. he used to say that Justine just made way to many, but I have a feeling it was to make sure that I didn't go hungry or get embarrassed.

It's taken me three years to put that into words. Glad I finally did.

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Charley Noble
Date: 13 Oct 12 - 08:32 PM

I had a good time talking with Riggy at Getaway about Barry. Barry was responsible for dragging Riggy out to San Francisco and Riggy never returned until Getaway. I bet there are more stories like that. There was a lot to fathom in Barry Finn.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Obit: Barry Finn (16 Oct 2009)
From: Elmore
Date: 13 Oct 12 - 08:47 PM

I met Barry in the seventies, and could tell the music was really becoming important to him. I enjoyed his Mudcat entries, and wish I could have seen him perform live.