Mike Winn
My sincerest condolences to the Barrus family. I worked with Neil at Hill AFB for over 15 years and Neil was one of my favorite people and friend. Although I really didn't hang out or know Neil outside of work I felt I knew him pretty well for a work associate.
Neil was such a good person. I enjoyed my time talking and laughing with him. He was very smart and new his job well and was fun to be around. At work a lot of people gravitated to his desk because he was so easy to talk to and fun to be around.
I enjoyed fun times with him and during times where I was upset at someone or something and I would talk or vent to him. We didn't talk a lot the last several years because of Covid, taking care of Katie, his operations and health issues, etc. but we talked a lot before that.
What impressed me the most was his love of family. Although I had never met any of his family, except, Marissa briefly, I felt I knew everyone because he always talked about his family in a way you know he loved them more than anything. I knew he loved you all of you. He was very proud of all children, grandchildren, mom, etc.
I always called him the 'Curmudgeon' because, in a humorous way, he sometimes came across as a 'grump and a didn't care about anyone or anything type of guy' but we all knew he had a big heart and cared about people. Like any of us, so there we some he didn't care for but he would still treat them with respect.
Anyway, I just wanted to write a few words. You are very fortunate to have had Neil in your life and we at work feel fortunate to have known him. I could see that at his funeral as well. He was truly blessed to have so many friends and family that cared for him. It was a great celebration of his life. He will be missed.
For what it is worth, I know he was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. We talked about it at times. God must have a work for him there. He is not gone forever and you will see him again on the other side.
If there is anything I can help with or do, please let me know.
Mike

