Barrelman’s Legacy
It was this weekend in 2009 the city of Denver lost an icon.
For those of you who might not be familiar with the Barrel Man here’s a simple explanation from Wikipedia of who he was and what he stood for.
The Barrel Man (real name Tim McKernan) was a superfan of the Denver Broncos. In all types of weather for thirty years, he attended every home game at both Mile High Stadium and INVESCO Field at Mile High wearing nothing but an orange barrel that covered his torso and a cowboy hat and boots.
The McKernan family asked if I would rerun this cartoon from a year ago. I thought it was a good time to honor their request. Broncos and Buffs fans are in crisis mode here in Colorado. Tim’s legacy is a gentle reminder to all of us that true fans have to take the good with the bad, weather the storms and, above all, live life to the fullest. Here’s to the Barrelman. Live passionately!
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The Barrel Man was definitely a “home field advantage” for the Broncos. I remember looking forward to the television cameras panning the stadium seats, with the hope that they would capture Mr. McKernan on camera. His smile and personality was larger than life. To his beloved wife, children, family and friends: this life-long fan will never forget the man who wore that brightly-painted barrel. As you mark one year since his passing, may you be comforted in knowing that you, and “The Barrel Man,” are in the thoughts and prayers of this Bronco fan’s heart. Salute!
Beautiful Peg.
I recall a great factoid about him from an RMN article, that he donated frequently to a women’s shelter in Grand Junction. I may have a few of the details wrong, but I always found that classy of him.
Dear Mr. Litton,
This is why I think I’m such a fan of yours. After the last few cartoons with shots delivered to the Bronco’s (much deserved) it is nice to be reminded why we loved Denver so much. I can’t help but image our Barrelman looking down from heaven and crying, or (incoming bad joke) wondering if he got lucky that he made it to heaven before the Bronco’s went to hell.
All the best
Louis
Good Morning from Omaha,
I remember watching the Bronco’s games and seeing this crazy fellow wearing a barrel.
It was something that you looked forward to as you watched the game. There aren’t any like him
anymore and his passion for all things Bronco.
He now has the best seats in the house and win or lose he is there for every game!
Strive for excellence, nothing but your best.
Gene
I love you guys!
Awesome awesome comments from the classiest sports fans on the planet!
Drew, I you saw how I acted at Rapids games, you’d know I don’t deserve the “classy” label!
I remember going to Bronco games as a kid and would always get excited if I got to see the BarrelMan standing by our section leading the cheering. I don’t think the Old Mile High would have been rocking and shaking if it wasn’t for the BarrelMan. Rest in Peace. He was and is the ultimate BroncoManiac.