BARRY JAMES FRENCH

I reached out the Barry because I had received a diagnoses similar to his. Without knowing me at all, he selfishly spent hours on the phone with me discussing my diagnosis, the medical literature, dietary changes, treatment, side effects, and much more. The fact that he spent that much time with a total stranger is a testament to his unlimited generosity. His advice has profoundly affected many of my life decisions since that time. I for one will never forget what he did for me.

As a younger cousin, I always looked up to Barry and thought of him as a larger than life kid (and later man). I think of him every time I jump on a rowing machine at the gym. Mary Ellen, Barry & Neall my sincere condolences to you. Dirk

Barry and I...two Ohio boys...met in Williamsburg, Virginia December 3, 1970. That meeting led to a life long friendship. I loved Barry. He showed me his integrity, sense of responsibility and perseverance. I was there when he started karate and watched him pursue it with the same passion he later applied to his family and all of his many ideas. Mary Ellen, Barry and Neal my thoughts are with you at your time of great loss. May all those good and laughter filled memories help you in days to come. As for you Barry...you and I will meet again and I am buying...

Barry was indeed a force of nature. We were best friends in junior high, starting in track & field, where he was the star and I was decidedly the also ran. In the years since, his infectious enthusiasm and leaping mind were always invigorating to encounter. It is hard to accept that someone so alive has left us. I miss you on this earth, Barry.

Mary Ellen, Barry & Neall,

My heart breaks for all of you in the loss of Barry.
Barry was bigger than life itself. He had such enthusiasm in all he did.
His love for his family always showed. His great sense of humor and that great laugh of his will always be remembered.
I always admired his strength and how hard he fought to overcome this battle with his diagnosis.
It truly was very humbling.
May you find Peace in your grief.
God Bless.


Kate Christopher

I will always remember Barry as the guy who sat behind me in high school homeroom (we were seated alphabetically) and tried to keep me out of trouble by telling me not to make jokes or weird noises (for which I had a penchant). Thanks for keeping me on the (more or less) straight and narrow, Bar.

Barry was a truly unique, complex and larger than life guy with a great goofy wit - and a wonderful life long friend. There will never be another Duke...