If you ever watched a Denver Broncos game, you will know the incredibly enthusiastic fan people in Denver simply called "The Barrel Man."  He showed up at Broncos games for decades wearing nothing but a barrel, a cowboy hat, and cowboy boots. His name was Tim McKernan.  He was the father of my childhood best friend.  And, he did not have the Rudy Syndrome.

Although he only started wearing the Barrel in 1977, Tim had been attending Broncos games since 1969.  He only missed four games in 40 years. As kids, his daughter and I thought he was crazy for standing outside in the dead of winter wearing nothing but a metal barrel.  In retrospect, I know he was a person dedicated to a mission.  And, you have to respect that.

One part of Tim's life that was almost entirely missed by the media when covering his presence at Broncos games was his endless devotion to kids.  He was notorious for providing a home to numerous foster kids over the years.  His big heart for the Broncos was obvious, but Tim had a big heart off the field as well.

Tim went home to be with the rest of the Super Fans in Heaven recently.  Many articles discussing his intense loyalty to the Broncos have been written in the past few days.  One thing stands out among all the tributes: Tim McKernan was a fan with passion.  He was perhaps the best known and most loyal fan in the history of the National Football League.  If he had been a little shorter and from a small town in Indiana, his name might have been Rudy.

Thanks, Tim, for reminding us that you can develop your skill on par with your talent regardless of your area of passion.  We will miss you.

In memory of Tim McKernan.  1940-2009.