Walter Barnett Prusaski

Walter "Barney" Barnett Prusaski (Pop Pop)

June 27, 1942 – February 13, 2026

Walter "Barney" Barnett Prusaski, known to his grandkids simply as Pop, passed away on February 13, 2026, at the age of 83.

Born in Natchez, Mississippi to Phillip and Earline Prusaski and raised in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Barney met Patti Jean when they were both 18. They married soon after and spent 63 years building a life and family together.

Barney is survived by his wife, Patti Jean; his children Tommy Prusaski (Alice), Dawn Brinkley (Charlie), and Christopher Prusaski (Yasel Blanco); and his grandchildren Conor, Luke, and Olivia Ellis. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sally Lynn Prusaski.

Barney began his career as a computer programmer at Sikorsky Aircraft in Trumbull, Connecticut. Nearly 40 years ago he packed up his family and moved to Florida, determined to build something of his own. He opened Mike's Car Care in Palm Bay and, years later, proudly passed it on to his son Tommy, where it continues today as Top Wrench Automotive Repair.

Florida suited him. He loved the outdoors, hunting and fishing, working in his yard, and spending time on his boat, proudly named after his bride, Patti Jean. Retirement meant more time for Sudoku in the mornings and more time in nature in the afternoons. He made friends with his neighbors the same way he did most things, by being outside, paying attention, and starting a conversation.

He loved taking his grandchildren boating and teaching them how to drive, how to fish, and how to shoot, including his granddaughter, who he made sure was treated no differently than her older brothers.

He had a dry sense of humor that sometimes took a moment to catch. He did not say everything he was thinking, which was probably for the best, but when he delivered a line, it landed. He was happiest when a room was laughing.

Right up until the end, he was still himself. Recently, that meant singing and dancing to Bad Bunny in the living room, putting on a show and getting exactly the response he was after.

Tremendous and heartfelt thanks go to the exceptional nurses at Holmes Regional Hospital, who provided not only compassionate care for Barney, but also comfort and support for his family during his final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, or to your local pour house, where his family encourages you to raise a glass of Johnny Walker and tell a good Pop story.