Good bye and RIP Barrelman
by mdierk on Dec 5, 2009 11:10 AM MST
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Just received some sad news from the Denver Post....
Tim McKernan, known to legions of Denver Broncos fans and televsion viewers as the Barrel Man, died early today, relatives said.
McKernan had been suffering from terminal lung disease.
For more than 30 seasons, McKernan appeared at Broncos games clad in a barrel and a cowboy hat.
McKernan retired in 2007 at the age of 67. He donated the barrel he wore in his last game to the Broncos' charities.
His first barrel, modeled after an Orange Crush bottle, was on exhibit in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
There are no words to say that could properly describe Barrelman. May he rest in peace and God give comfort to his family.
Thank you, Tim!
This is a Fan-Created Comment on MileHighReport.com. The opinion here is not necessarily shared by the editorial staff of MHR
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Very sad day in Bronco land
I have many memories of seeing Barrel Man at the games. He was an amazing part of Mile High for so long. Best wishes to his family. RIP
Broncos- go out and win for the Barrel Man!!!!!
I too dabbled in pacifism once...
by waltersobchakbronco on Dec 5, 2009 11:16 AM MST reply actions
Sad news indeed.
Barrel Man was one of the icons of my early Broncos fandom. He will be missed.
- Jason
I gather speed by you f***ing with me - EV
let's rec this up everyone...
There should be a statue erected at the stadium for this man.
I too dabbled in pacifism once...
by waltersobchakbronco on Dec 5, 2009 11:19 AM MST reply actions 1 recs
How do we make that happen?
Anybody know a Bronze Sculptor who’s a Broncos fan?
I posted a reply earlier that we should put the statue of the Barrel Man on the concourse by the South Stands looking over the field. That way it could be seen from most seats in the stadium…
That way the Barrel Man can continue to fire up Broncos Fans!
The statue can also be made of wood also ! And thats probably easy to make than bronze
I am sure there is more carpenters out there that can do this. As opposed to working with
bronze ?
by broncosfaninphilly on Dec 5, 2009 12:43 PM MST up reply actions
Wood statue in the open stadium in cold Denver...
Not the best idea.
Quit drinking the Kool-Aid and start drinking the good stuff, and everything is always alright.
by Chuck "DeadDrunk" Breedlove on Dec 5, 2009 3:55 PM MST up reply actions
Bronze was actually my second choice...
The solid gold Tim truly deserves is even out of Pat Bowlen’s price range.
But seriously… How many folks out there would pony up a few bucks for the statue?
Set up a second fan post
After every one has a chance to say their goodbye’s. I am sure the Broncos organization will be very helpful – but this should be a ‘from the fans’ for the greatest fan ever. In the stands where he will continue to be a fixture in every game and every telecast.
Should be made of recyled aluminum cans (beer cans)
But if notrhing else I think they should put him in the ring of fame, he was/is an icon.
P.S. – Anyone else (mainly that jack ass elf) is just a sad imitator.
We will miss you Barrel Man
"Me fail english, that unpossible" - Ralph Wiggum
"Duffman is thrusting in the direction of the problem" - Duffman
"Good, bad, I'm the guy with the gun" - Ash from Army of Darkness
"H.I., you're young and you got your health, what you want with a job?" - Evelle from Raising Arizona
"It happens sometimes. People just explode. Natural causes." - Agent Rogersz from Repoman
In addition to a statue...
I think Tim should be inducted into the Bronco ring of fame. He has been a steadfast supporter of the Broncos longer than most (if not all) of the employees at the Broncos Organization (Including Pat Bowlen who has only owned the Broncos for 26 years.)
by Safetyguy3366 on Dec 6, 2009 10:17 AM MST up reply actions 1 recs
I am with you on that one.
Put him up during the home opener next season.
2009 NBA Champions L.A Lakers
2009 NBA Finals MVP Kobe Bryant
Can MHR put up a permanent memorial to Barrel Man on the front page somewhere?
I too dabbled in pacifism once...
by waltersobchakbronco on Dec 5, 2009 11:22 AM MST reply actions 8 recs
Good idea
"All credibility, all good conscience, all evidence of truth come only from the senses." Friedrich Nietzsche
that would be appropriate actually
he’s right up there with Patrick Bowlen as top Broncos fans.
"All we're trying to do is win the *********** game!" -- Josh MF McDaniels tearing into his offensive line after three false starts in the red zone. The tirade turned the tide of the game, and the Broncos dominated from that point on.
by broncosmontana on Dec 5, 2009 5:37 PM MST up reply actions
Rec'd
"Me fail english, that unpossible" - Ralph Wiggum
"Duffman is thrusting in the direction of the problem" - Duffman
"Good, bad, I'm the guy with the gun" - Ash from Army of Darkness
"H.I., you're young and you got your health, what you want with a job?" - Evelle from Raising Arizona
"It happens sometimes. People just explode. Natural causes." - Agent Rogersz from Repoman
The Barrel Man was one of Denver's unique identities.
It’s sad to see him go. RIP Tim McKernan (aka Barrel Man).
"When you put on that jersey, the name on the front is more important than the name on the back." - "Miracle".
"Winning means you're willing to go longer, work harder, and give more than anyone else." - Vince Lombardi.
May he RIP
I have many memories of just seeing him on TV growing up, hearing John Madden comment on him, etc. Dude was a true character and a true fan.
There's no need to fear, Underdog is here! / Broncos/Dodgers fan in Niners/Raiders/Giants country, and damned proud of it.
by underdog on Dec 5, 2009 11:23 AM MST reply actions 4 recs
Say it ain't so!
RIP Tim
Character may be manifested in the great moments but it is made in the small ones -- Philip Brooks
You don't get any better than BarrelMan!!!!
Probably one of the greatest fans of any sport of all time!
The Broncos lost a dear friend and amazing Fan today. Thanks for Everything Tim!
"So tell me what happened."
"Well, the last thing I remember is seeing this flash of Blue and Orange and the #22... then everything just went black..."
No you don't
He showed what it means to be a fan.
2009 NBA Champions L.A Lakers
2009 NBA Finals MVP Kobe Bryant
Rest In Peace Barrel Man!
One of my formative memories of what it means to be a Broncos fan was seeing this wonderful person on tv at every home game. Job well done, sir…
- Nick
"We got 'em right where we want 'em!" - Keith Bishop, right before John Elway orchestrated The Drive. 'Nuff said.
My condolances go out to his family
He was the most famous Bronco fan on tv. RIP, Barrel Man.
"All credibility, all good conscience, all evidence of truth come only from the senses." Friedrich Nietzsche
R.I.P. Tim.
"All by their heads, he places crowns."
by Tempestuous Binary on Dec 5, 2009 11:56 AM MST reply actions
When you think of Bronco fans
…you think of Barrel Man. He was such a great part of the atmosphere at Mile High and I remember seeing him on TV since I first started watching football. RIP Barrel Man. We’ll see you in the Ring of Fame.
by bostonbroncofan on Dec 5, 2009 11:58 AM MST reply actions
A True Pioneer
Tim McKernan invented the super-fan, the man at the top of the heap of crazy orange-drunk Bronco fans back to the 70’s.
First fan in the Hall of Fame, they should put him on the Ring at Mile High.
Hang on folks, road's a little bumpy in these spots.
RIP
To the greatest Bronco fan of all-time.
Verbose in style, dispersion of thought, procrastination in life.
The guy formerly known as ZAPPA
The "John Elway" of Broncos fans
you could say…
I too dabbled in pacifism once...
by waltersobchakbronco on Dec 5, 2009 12:34 PM MST up reply actions
That's sad. Condolences to his family and friends.
I love the idea of a memorial to him in front of one of the gates to the stadium.
Man is not a rational animal, he is a rationalizing animal.
Sad day for Broncos fans.
My heart goes out to Tim’s family. It should be some small comfort to know that Tim will now have the best view of his beloved Broncos no matter where they play, and the tickets are already paid for.
RIP Tim.
Formerly known as HoosierTeacher or just HT.
"Greater is an army of sheep led by a lion, than an army of lions led by a sheep" Defoe
A Fan Favorite
Barrelman will be sadly missed, I enjoyed seeing him for many years. Hopefully others can match his support for OUR team! RIP Tim.
Lee Tafoya
RIP Tim. My prayers go out to the McKernan family.
If Taylor Swift were to try and tackle me, I'd let her.
RIP to a great fan
I’ve always considered Barrelman to be the first Bronco in the Hall of Fame. He’s been a great part of Denver and he’ll be missed.
by Gorbal on Dec 5, 2009 12:59 PM MST via mobile reply actions
Chiefs fan here.
But I’ve always admired Barrelmans love and devotion to his and your Broncos. my condolences go out to his family and friends.
by Hoochdawg on Dec 5, 2009 1:04 PM MST reply actions 1 recs
Thank you.
That means more than you know, I think.
Thanks for another fantastic season...here's to Rocktober 2010!
"If you do it right 51 percent of the time, you will end up a hero." - Alfred P. Sloan
I am saddened by this passing and hope Tim's family can find some comfort from this.
A fixture who will be missed by many and one that can never be replaced.
I have Barrel Man's
autograph on a “nerf” Broncos helmet a couple friends got for me.
That really is a keepsake for me now . . .
BILLY THOMPSON GOT SHAFTED!!
RIP
he was a great guy i got to meet him he knew i was a super fan too i like to think there a little of barrelman in all of us we need to win tomm for barrelman
okay i have cereal palsy arhrtis and chronic fatiue as well i have a grea life loveing folks some days are better that other days i got a make a wish in 2001 saw my favorive team the broncos was the trip of the lifetime i wish everyone couild gotten to enjoy that with me i know some of u hate the broncos and that ok but i bleed organ and bule
Dont laugh but .
I wonder if Barrelmans passing means anything to the
current coaching staff or the players like he does to the
fanbase . does anyone think he will be mentioned in a
Pre game meeting to motivate a win playing in honor of
his memory ? I hope so.. RIP Barrelman..
by broncosfaninphilly on Dec 5, 2009 1:46 PM MST reply actions
My respect and condolences to Barrelman and his friends and family.
In the spirit of fandom that he represents, GO BRONCOS!
-Harvey J. Neptune
"Practice doesn't make perfect. PERFECT practice makes perfect." - Vince Lombardi
Can someone get a hold of Jim Saccomano
(e-mail, phone, etc.) and see if they will do something to acknowledge him?
Character may be manifested in the great moments but it is made in the small ones -- Philip Brooks
Horrible news.
I wish he could’ve at least toughed it out until this season was over. Barrelman for the ROF!
by BroncosBassist on Dec 5, 2009 2:13 PM MST reply actions 1 recs
Barrelman!
Much love, sir. Sorry you’re no longer with us. You’re the embodiment of what all the Broncomaniacs feel but cannot express. May we carry your torch proudly.
I thought you knew that algebra was all razzamatazz. A Globetrotter always saves the good algebra for the final minutes.
We'll miss you, guy.
You were such an icon and an irrepressible spirit, and this is truly the end of an era.
Btw, I was almost you for Halloween this year. Next year, I promise to follow through and wear that barrel proudly. Much love to your family. God bless!
"All we're trying to do is win the *********** game!" -- Josh MF McDaniels tearing into his offensive line after three false starts in the red zone. The tirade turned the tide of the game, and the Broncos dominated from that point on.
ship that barrel to the HOF
stat!
"All we're trying to do is win the *********** game!" -- Josh MF McDaniels tearing into his offensive line after three false starts in the red zone. The tirade turned the tide of the game, and the Broncos dominated from that point on.
by broncosmontana on Dec 5, 2009 5:35 PM MST up reply actions
prayers for family and friends
About ten years ago my girlfriend, now my wife, and i went to a bronco seahawk game. We got tix late and couldnt sit next to each other. At halftime we meet up and she exclaimed there was a man right in front of her wearing only a barrel ! She was amazed. Fond memories….she will be sad when i tell her
luckily im a bronco and a blazer fan
With a heavy heart we bid him farewell into his next journey.
He was such a fixture and the epitome of a true fan.
Imagination is more important than knowledge. A. Einstein
Tim McKernan (Barrelman)
will be sorely missed. There was a truly epic fan, peace be with his family.
Jason
The Hanging Curve
It's a tough loss
But how many people can say that made the same type of genuine impact to so many as this man?
He was tougher than Clint Eastwood
I froze my a^^ off at many a broncos game. Sitting in the south stands drinking hot chocolate……… He was always in that barrel trying to rally the crowd. The team needs to wear a sticker on the helmet for the rest of the year.
"3 and Out Baby" I ride the short bus!
by scottwchicago on Dec 5, 2009 6:05 PM MST reply actions 2 recs
+1
That would a nice way to honour his memory. He was an icon and will be missed.
Time is a great teacher. Unfortunately, it kills all of it's students.
nice idea scott
okay i have cereal palsy arhrtis and chronic fatiue as well i have a grea life loveing folks some days are better that other days i got a make a wish in 2001 saw my favorive team the broncos was the trip of the lifetime i wish everyone couild gotten to enjoy that with me i know some of u hate the broncos and that ok but i bleed organ and bule
A true legend
As a Broncos fan from waaaay back I wish the McKernan family true condolences.
Tim the Barrel Man is a true legend. When I think of the good years from 1977 to today the first thing I see is Tim.
May he Rest In Peace and I pray for his family.
The Broncos need to honor this man as he was the face of the Broncos fans who intimidated many opponents with the loud noise during games.
Make those miracles happen - Jon Keyworth
So much has already been said...
…that I can’t add much more than my own condolences to his family, not to mention his immense number of friends in the Bronco community.
I don’t think he could ever be really replaced – and I wholeheartedly recommend getting the ball rolling to place him on the Mile High Ring of Fame somehow.
Thanks for another fantastic season...here's to Rocktober 2010!
"If you do it right 51 percent of the time, you will end up a hero." - Alfred P. Sloan
RIP Barrelman...
Its a sad day in Broncos Country. Mile High Stadium should put a statue of him at the Federal Entrance.
"Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence."
Vince Lombardi
Remembering to have fun
I have a distinct memory or Mr. McKernan.
I was at the game with my crazy friend Shelly. It think was TD’s first 100 yrd game against the Dolts. Anyway she loved to just walk around the stadium and jabber with people and we stood there next to Mr. McKernan for the entire halftime while she tried to talk him into taking the barrel off! He would not do it, but he seemed to enjoy the joke and generally just seemed like a fun guy. I love the Broncos, but being a fan can sometimes be a mood swing inducer. I like to think of this memory at the bad times and try to remember that is all really about having a good time and cheering for our guys, whoever they might be at the time. Barrel man was the best fan of all time and he knew how to have fun doing it. I didnt know him but I would think he would want us to emulate that aspect of fandom. Watching our team win is about the most fun we can have. Watching them loose just makes it that much more fun when they win next. Its all about the fun and watching Barrel Man over the years has definitely been fun. Cheers to the best Broncos fan ever! He will be watching the games from a new vantage point from now on. I definitely agree with the Ring of Fame or statue sentiment. My condolences to his family.
Go Broncos!
Thank you Tim
Some of my fondest memories have you etched into them. You gave me permission to believe, to let go of the excitement bottled up inside me. If you could stand outside on a freezing December day in nothing but your barrel, then it was perfectly OK for me to jump up and down in my living room. For decades you were the face of the Broncos, and by extension maybe even the face of Colorado. You were THE Bronco. You showed up every game not for a paycheck or the notoriety – you showed up for love of the team and love of the game. The greatest bronco ever, Tim McKernan, will be fondly remembered.
Love Ya BARREL MAN!!!!!
I remember seeing Barrel Man as a kid in Arrowhead. Probably freezing his ass off!!!! But having a jolly good time and cheering louder than anyone for the Broncos to win! I thought he was the coolest guy in the world!
I was a former South Stander
I had a lot of chances to talk to Tim and he was endlessly polite, friendly and enjoyable. The game has lost a great fan, and I will mourn his passing.
Moreno/Buckhalter in '09
To the Greatest Broncos Fan...
RIP Barrelman, you will be remembered.
Donate to charity by shopping for Purple Row Merchandise at:
Purple Row Cares
GODSPEED TIM
after watching him in the stands for years, finally got to meet him at chatfield resovoir for a day of boating. you will be missed and our prayers are with your family at this time ….
~RIP Barrel Man~ :(
Change your thoughts and you change your world~Norman Vincent Peale
"And on the 8TH day-God created the Broncos!"
A mile high salute to the greatest fan of all
Thank you Tim, and another salute to Tim’s family. You’re every bit a part of Bronco Country fandom forever.
Give a man a fish, and he'll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he'll eat for a lifetime.
"Losing stinks" - Josh McDaniels
WOW, this is a sad day in Bronco Country.
RIP Barrel Man and the biggest Bronco fan there was. My thoughts go out to his family.
2009 NBA Champions L.A Lakers
2009 NBA Finals MVP Kobe Bryant
Measure of a Fan
He set the bar high, may he be happy, healthy and watching the Broncos from the best seats anywhere now.
How do you keep the Broncos Humble?
"Just show them the film. Show them the film." - Josh McDaniels
It's nice that they sent him on his Journey with a win
It was only fitting
Moreno/Buckhalter in '09
by Doc Bear on Dec 6, 2009 2:31 PM MST reply actions 1 recs
God Bless
A true fan
We Will kick at least 4 Teams Asses in 09. Almost there :)
And Succop will be the Key in two of them. Skins & Raiders! Pittsburgh Sweet!
" Think and talk positive football off the field." Hank Stram
I would say, he needs to be in the ring of fame, but put his name in the South Stands
"Me fail english, that unpossible" - Ralph Wiggum
"Duffman is thrusting in the direction of the problem" - Duffman
"Good, bad, I'm the guy with the gun" - Ash from Army of Darkness
"H.I., you're young and you got your health, what you want with a job?" - Evelle from Raising Arizona
"It happens sometimes. People just explode. Natural causes." - Agent Rogersz from Repoman
Chargers fan here...
I want to offer my sincere condolences to Mr. McKernan’s family and friends, and to all the people here on MHR who knew and/or shared the stands with him.
I became a Chargers fan a couple of years after Barrel Man started his (seemingly crazy) tradition of wearing the barrel and having his barrel chest exposed to the frigid Colorado weather. He was instantly recognizable and, as someone stated earlier, the Elway of Broncos fans. You have to be one tough somanagun to do what he did for as long as he did. Never met the man, but it’s obvious he was special given the outpouring in this thread.
Even though fans of a particular team are typically not supposed to like anything about their division rivals, my heart sunk when I saw the headline. This transcends the game. Rest in peace, Tim…
"Well, I've wrestled with reality for 35 years, doctor, and I'm happy to state that I've finally won out over it." -- Elwood P. Dowd (Jimmy Stewart), "Harvey"
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