Barry Patrick Hawbaker, 48

Barry Patrick Hawbaker, 48, “walked into the Lord’s loving arms” on Friday, April 5, 2013, while listening to one of his favorite radio stations at his home in Kalispell.

He was born on a warm July day in Havre to parents James and Norma Jean Hawbaker. His mother found radio music would soothe Barry’s restless spirit and lull him to sleep. Thus the notes and song of his life and career began. The first five years of his life were spent in Inverness, Mont., and Portland. Sister Natalie joined the family in 1969, and they all moved to Kalispell in 1970, just in time for Barry to begin first grade.

After graduating from Flathead High School in 1982, Barry attended and completed his broadcast training at the Yellowstone School of Broadcasting in Billings. He worked at numerous radio stations including Sidney, Modesto, Calif., Palm Springs, Calif., Eureka, Calif., and Rock 94.5 in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. In between these positions he was employed by Bee Broadcasting on several stations where he was known as “Barry Bennett.” No matter where he worked, his main goal was to make the station number 1. He spent hours listening to radio stations, studying DJ styles and developing an amazing talent for picking hit songs, which made him an admired member of his profession. His job gave him the opportunity to attend concerts, mingle with great song artists and listen to top-rated bands.

Barry married Brenda Goodwin in 1983, and they had two boys, Brandon and Blake. The couple later divorced. He then met Becky Austin and they were blessed with a daughter, Jazmyn. Although his time with them was limited by his career, he bragged about their accomplishments regularly and genuinely loved them.

Barry’s favorite place to be was on Flathead Lake with his family and friends while boating, taking pictures, kayaking and soaking up all the beauty around him. He especially loved pulling his kids, niece, nephew, sister, or anyone who was brave enough, on the tube behind the boat. All animals, tame or wild, were his friends, especially a Canadian goose named Buddy, his sister’s dog Gracie, and friend’s dog, Odie. He had a passion for cars, especially the models that were fast, sleek and gave access to the wind in his hair via a sunroof, T-Top, or convertible. He loved attending Montana Griz games with his dad and uncle, Dick.

Barry brightened and energized any occasion with his witty remarks and sharp humor. He would give a ride, lend money or do a favor for a stranger or a friend. As one person said, “We will miss our spark.”

“Thank you, Barry, for letting us join and love you as you walked and wrote the song of your life. Your beat will always remain in our hearts.”

Barry is survived by his children, Brandon A. Hawbaker of Houston, Blake P. Hawbaker of Williston, N.D., and Jazmyn Austin of Kalispell; his parents, James and Norma Jean Hawbaker of Yellow Bay; sister, Natalie Felker and husband, Steve; and nephew and niece, Ryan and Analiese of Spokane. He is also survived by his uncle, Richard, and aunt, Mary Rousselle, of Ronan; and numerous other aunts, uncles and cousins.

A rosary will be said at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 12, at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 13, at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church in Kalispell.

The family suggests donations to the charity of your choosing or “pay it forward” like Barry would.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for Barry’s family. You are invited to www.jgfuneralhome.com to view Barry’s tribute wall, offer condolences and share memories.