Bernard "Bernie" James Barribeau

Bernard “Bernie” James Barribeau, age 77, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at home.

Bernie was born on July 22, 1945 in Oconto, WI. From a young age Bernie knew he was destined to be involved in sports and officiating; being the youngest of five boys there was always competition amongst his siblings including his sister. Bernie attended Oconto High School and was a standout athlete in basketball, football and track. After high school Bernie enrolled at The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh majoring in education. He played defensive back for the Titans football team. He

officiated his first high school varsity basketball game in Beaver Dam when he was a freshman in college. Bernie took a brief break from college when he was drafted into the US Army from 1969-1971. During his time in the military; Bernie was stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington and was able to officiate AAU and armed service games while serving. After serving his country he returned to the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and graduated in 1973. He then went on to play for a semi-pro football team the Manitowoc Chiefs.

Bernie loved officiating, he said he never worked a day in his life because he loved what he was doing. Bernie’s lifelong career is full of many milestones and accomplishments! It is hard to believe that he was an official for over 60 years and also owned his own business J&B Sporting Goods! Throughout his career he officiated many men’s and women’s sports including basketball, baseball, football, softball, and volleyball. Bernie’s career highlight was officiating Division I College men’s and women's basketball. He officiated in the Big Ten, Big Eight, SEC, Association of Mid-Continent Universities, Missouri Valley and Gateway conferences.

Bernie’s true pride and joy was the family he built. Together Bernie and Laurie raised three daughters, he truly loved being a girl dad. Bernie and Laurie wed in Lake Tahoe, Nevada on April 3, 1979 and were married 44 years. Bernie enjoyed traveling with his family, golfing, fishing, landscaping and watching any sporting event, especially when it involved cheering on his three grandchildren. Bernie was the definition of a true family man and the greatest husband, father and papa. He was generous, loyal, kind and loving. He will always be remembered and loved by all who knew him for his contagious smile and generous heart.

Bernie is survived by his wife, Laurie (Seckar); daughters, Andrea (Rob) Kraemer (their children Easton, Emersyn, and Oaklyn), Brittney Barribeau, and Caeley (André) Petrus. He is also survived by his brother Mike Barribeau. He was preceded in death by his parents George and Gertrude Barribeau, sister June (Clifford) Allen, brothers Bob (Ellen) Sconzert, Leroy (Carol) Sconzert, John (Jane) Sconzert, and sister-in-law Cora Barribeau. He is also survived by many many brother/sister in laws and nieces/nephews.

Special thanks to his guardian angels on earth who helped take care of Bernie after his stroke: Kim Morris, Paula Qualley, and Abby Davis. Also special thanks to the McDonald Family, Gutierrez Family, Sales Family, Harvot Family, and the Pfaff Family. Very thankful for the support of Tom White, Ron Van Rossum, Pete Benson, Joe Burgert, Tom Baum, and Ron Cardo. An additional huge thanks to Laurie’s sisters, brothers, and sister/brother in laws for all their support, help and love.

Visitation and Mass will be held on Monday, June 19th, 2023. Visitation at 9:30am until the time of service at 11am, held at St. Raphael the Archangel Church, 830 S. Westhaven Dr., Oshkosh.

Memorials: All monies received will be donated to Father Carr's Place 2B Mother Teresa Center. Bernie enjoyed delivering meals on Thanksgiving Day with his girls. He loved donating his time to those in need.