On March 23, more than 100 people gathered at the Indiana Convention Center during FDIC to pay tribute to Fire Apparatus and Emergency Equipment Journal Chief Columnist Bob Barraclough.
Betts Barraclough began the memorial service, greeting those in attendance and telling them in her own words who her “sweet old Bob” was. “He was a flag-waving American patriot, attending as many fire truck parades as possible,” she said. “If you went to dinner or to lunch with Bob, he would lead you to a favorite restaurant of his. Bob was a very honorable man and very confident in his abilities. His handshake was his word. He liked to watch people grow in their skills and their abilities. But, most importantly he loved and respected each and every one of you. Thank you for filling his life with your friendship and your love.
Some of Bob’s peers were invited to share their thoughts during the memorial. Some of their comments include:
“Whatever your relationship, even if you were a competitor, Bob was always your friend.”–Bill Ballentyne
“He made little people feel like big people.”–Alan Saulsbury
“He didn’t do things half way. He did them the right way.”–Bill Fritz
“God recognized the need for a person like Bob in heaven.”–Larry McMillen
“Bob saw a need, he stepped into it, and he filled it.”–Jim Juneau
“Bob was always smart, determined, competitive and capable–he was tireless.”–Al Morganelli
Bill Web, CSFI, read a letter from John McCain to Betts, which concluded, “An innovator, an instructor, a tireless advocate for firefighter safety, Bob leaves behind an incredible legacy that will have a profound impact on the fire and emergency services for years to come.”
Emotional at times, the memorial service concluded with Larry Dobson singing, Precious Lord, and some closing thoughts from Betts. “I just want to say thank you for so many kind words. Enjoy your show, I hope it’s successful. He’d want that. You all meant so much to him. He always felt so privileged to work and play in an industry he loved—your fire industry.”
