Barry Eugene Hafeman

When Barry Hafeman was born on February 19, 1947 in Kewaunee, the world had no idea what it was in for. A man was born that day who would go after and get what he wanted in life – what he held dearest until the day he passed.

His first love was sports. From playing ball all summer long at the park, to shooting hoops into his sixties, to playing catch with his kids and grandkids, to becoming an almost-fan of soccer. He loved all games. Mostly though, he was a lifelong Cubs fan. There were few things that would stop Barry from watching games on TV or catching a game at Wrigley. And if you listen closely in Algoma, you might still hear Barry yelling from his recliner.

Next, barbering. Barry was a 1965 graduate of Algoma High School and later from NWTC with a barber certificate, going on to work in a Two Rivers shop until it closed. His barbering didn't end there though. Barry carried his kit with him (always particular about his scissors) and gave haircuts to family and friends in the kitchen, as long as they paid in soda and Snickers. If any of them ever got a haircut elsewhere, they knew he would be quick to run his hands through their hair and analyze the technique.

Around Algoma, Barry was known as the mailman. Anyone who lived in Algoma from the mid-70s through early 2000s, knew that he didn't just deliver mail though. If someone forgot to place a hold on their mail while they went on vacation, they could call Barry at home and he'd take care of it. If they didn't have enough postage on a letter, he'd take care of it. And if they were outside while he was making his rounds, they could count on a lengthy chat about baseball or family. To this day, he could go into any area store only to hear someone call out, "Barry, my old mailman!"

His greatest love though, was his beautiful wife Jane and his family. From the moment he first caught Jane's eye, wearing his fancy pants and nicest shirt, they both knew there was something special between them. That was mid-1973 and they would be married and starting their family by the end of the year. Looking back through photos of his life, it's difficult to find one of just him. Photos all show him surrounded closely by Jane, his children and his grandchildren at birthdays, musicals, games, or just being by their sides; always looking away from the camera, never losing sight of those he loved and cherished.

Barry's a man of nine lives and we all thought he would pull through once again. However, on the evening of Thursday, September 17, Barry passed peacefully with family by his side. Together, Barry and Jane were the most amazing parents and grandparents. They are back together once again and we cannot thank them enough for the abundance of love, support and memories we will carry with us.

Barry is survived by his children: Ben (Jessi) Hafeman, Jason (Lieneke) Hafeman, Sarah (Andrew) Kerbel; five amazing grandchildren: Grant, Olivia, Evan, Sophia, and Efrem; and sister Bev. He is also survived by many nieces & nephews and other family members. Barry was preceded in death by his beloved wife Jane; parents: Harold and Helen; father- and mother-in-law: Orville and Audrey; and brothers: Dennis, Wayne and Mark; along with other family members and friends.

We would like to give a special thank you to the staff and volunteers at Unity Meng Residence for the amazing care you gave him over the last weeks of his life. Each of you went above and beyond with your compassion every day.

Family and friends are welcome to visit, Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at the Schinderle Funeral Home, Algoma from 4:00-7:00 PM, followed by a service on Wednesday, September 23 at St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church beginning at 10:00 AM.