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Barry Brunsman Obituary
It is in the hope of the Resurrection, though with great sadness that the Franciscans of St. Barbara Province announce the passing of our brother, Fr. Barry Brunsman. Barry was born in Phoenix and attended St. Mary's Grade School and Parish. He was ordained in 1956 at the Old Mission Santa Barbara. Friar, priest, retreat master, pastor, teacher, author, brother, uncle, friend! Many people remembered Barry from the Franciscan Renewal Center where he served as the Retreat Master and Director of Counseling for almost a decade. Barry lived life to the fullest. As a Franciscan, he had no trouble with the vow of poverty, giving money and gifts that he received to anyone in need. Believing he represented a God that was loving, he had a ready smile and warm hugs for everyone. He was particularly aware of people who lived on the margins: single parents, the poor, people in minimum wage jobs, the divorced, the elderly and he ministered to them all with compassion. Barry leaves behind a large extended family along with many beloved friends. He loved greatly and was well loved! Barry died at the age of 91 with 63 years as a priest. A private Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at St. Elizabeth's in Oakland, on Monday, April 13. His inurnment will follow at the Old Mission Santa Barbara. When the pandemic passes, Barry's Memorial Mass will be celebrated at the Franciscan Renewal Center (thecasa.org). Everyone is invited! Donations in his honor would be welcomed at: Franciscan Friars—Fraternal Care Trust.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Barry Brunsman
Margaret
August 30, 2020
Fr. Barry was a treasure. I met him in Sacramento In the Single Parent group in the 90's. What a breath of fresh air he brought to the church. He opened the door to the marginalized, the divorced and gay community. The church was packed in those days, he was known throughout the Sac area, even in the other faith communities. I miss him still. He blessed my second marriage. RIP dear Barry.
Rudy Blea
July 7, 2020
Barry I felt was a very powerful person. He knew the people well. I enjoyed getting his vestments at St. Francis, he was easy to please and was not a conformist. It was said to find out that he had passed on. May he and Mel be at peace. Pax et bonum.
Irene quinn
June 4, 2020
E was very helpfol to our singles groups here in Sacramento ..going way back and helped us through our young adult years...and more...peace.
Dorothy Doscher
June 1, 2020
Father Barry was a great help to me when I was in a difficult place. I also attended many of the retreats that he conducted. I knew him briefly and will remember him forever. He had a special gift of giving to the people who needed him. God love you into eternity Barry. Dorothy
Jeanette
May 17, 2020
I met Father Barry in the early 90's when he was the Priest at St Francis of Assisi in Sacramento, CA. Father Barry brought me back to God, to faith..he showed my family love, joy and acceptance. A great man full of love for all people. I will never forget you Father Barry. Rest with God now.
Joan
May 16, 2020
Thank you for your brave words of love and humaneness.
Dorothy Hann
April 20, 2020
Meet Fr. Barry in Maui back in the 80's at a Catholic singles convention, when he was a chaplain for the Catholic Alumni Club International, otherwise known as CACI. He spent some time with my friend and me. He treated us to an ice cream. Years later, when I moved to northern California, I felt so lucky when I found out that he gave retreats for singles at San Damiano in Danville. He was a great priest that touched many lives.
Deanna Hanson
April 16, 2020
Fr. Barry was a special friend to both me and my partner, Jack. He was like no other and helped so many. So very wise and loving.
clay & roberta klein
April 14, 2020
Barry---your love, care and advice changed our lives
April 13, 2020
Just when I needed a friend back in 1976 I wandered into the Franciscan Renewal Center and Fr. Barry and Fr. Mike uplifted my spirits. Then I met Fran Aragon at the Casa and joined the musical liturgy. Those relationships lasted even to this day.
Some things in life endure and knowing Fr. Barry is one of them.
RIP Father and pray for us, especially in these uncertain times.
Sandy D'Anna
April 13, 2020
Barry you and Father Micheal meant so much to our family here in Phoenix. I grew up with the two of you and every Sunday was a treat.
We love you and miss you!
The Benscoter Family
April 12, 2020
No words to express our sadness at Barry's passing. He was a part of our family for over 40 years. So much of what we learned about Jesus, we learned through Father Barry. His spirit was infectious and he embraced everyone as Jesus would. We love you, Barry! Mary and Larry Manross Scottsdale, Arizona
betsy Rogers Friedman
April 12, 2020
I will never forget Barry. Being new to Phoenix back in about 76, I discovered the Casa. Also being divorced, the Casa had a singles group and I met all my new friends at a spiritual weekend. When Barry spoke at Mass, everyone was glued to their seats.
His sense of humor and generosity were incredible.
My favorite memory is when he held Thanksgiving dinner for divorced and singles and their children at the Casa. I am sure he is being greeted in heaven
with all the love that he showed to his parishioners.
James Lindell
April 12, 2020
Fr. Barry was one of my favorite priests. Many times I have passed on to others the things he told those of us in a married couples retreat. Our Lord has taken home a great man to be at His side. Rest In Peace with Jesus our Savior. Your faithful job on earth is through! May God grant your families comfort in their loss.
April 11, 2020
My condolences are extended as you mourn the loss of your dear loved one. May you find comfort and strength to cope during this trying time. (Psalm 90:10)
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