Service Details
Barry’s funeral and celebration of life are on Saturday, March 21st, 2026, with visitation and service being held at Racine Assembly of God, 1325 Airline Road. Visitation will be from 9:00am until the service, starting at 11:00 am, with a luncheon to follow.
Memorial Suggestions
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations can be made to Royal Family Kids Camp, a camp for abused and neglected foster children in the Racine area, sponsored by Racine Assembly of God.
Barry John Tait, affectionately known as “Bear,” passed away at home on March 6, 2026, after a wonderful life filled with laughter and love. He was born on August 6, 1967, to Ron and Sandy Tait in Dearborn, MI.
Barry’s family moved to Racine, WI, when he was a young boy and he quickly found his passion for competition and sports. From soapbox derby to track, flag football and wrestling, Barry was always an athlete and very competitive. He was a proud 1986 Racine Lutheran High School graduate and a standout wrestler, earning a 2nd place finish at state. Barry graduated from UW-Parkside in 1990 in Business Marketing.
Barry’s passion for creativity prompted him to start his own video production company in his parents’ basement in 1993, eventually branching out into his own office building. For over 30 years, “Tait Media” became a staple in the Racine area, responsible for hundreds of weddings, training videos, and business marketing strategies. Always looking to stay relevant, he expanded his business to include podcasts and various social media platforms. He was never seen without his video camera, whether he was filming the boys at their sporting events, capturing a friend doing the “Polar Plunge,” or capturing another corporate video. If you needed a video, you could always count on Barry to be there!
On June 26, 1999, Barry married the love of his life, Heather J. Hall, following a blind date arranged by a mutual friend. They shared over 26 wonderful, fun-filled years together, and his love for her and their two sons, Nathaniel and Nicholas, was deep and unconditional. Barry adored his family and was a completely devoted husband and father, always up for a fun time, and there were many. He thoroughly enjoyed traveling to all the amazing places Heather planned for them. He loved being outdoors with their 2 dogs, Tucker and Peanut and was the greatest fan at all his sons’ events, videoing almost every one. Barry loved watching the Green Bay Packers and shared that fervor with his wife and sons.
Barry had a strong and unwavering faith in Jesus, and was a dedicated member of Racine Assembly of God for most of his life. He truly lived out his faith by serving the Lord in many ways, as a small group leader, usher, and children’s ministry; always willing to help others with a laugh and a smile. He had a spirit of integrity and a kind word for everyone. Barry will be deeply missed by all those who loved him and whose lives were touched because he was in them.
Barry is survived by his loving wife, Heather, and their two sons, Nathaniel and Nicholas. He is also survived by his two brothers, Andy (Maria) Tait of Sacramento, CA, and Chris (Karri) Tait of Wauwatosa, WI. His beloved mother-in-law, Betty, and sisters-in-law, Holly (Rick) Winrich and Heidi (Fred Cline) Hall, also survive him. He was a loving uncle to his nieces and nephews, Aidan, Norah, Elliott, Noah, Isaiah, Janelle, Jessica, Jonathan, Arthur, Jaclyn, and Jillian, and is survived by his special Aunt Linda and her son, Darin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ron and Sandy Tait.
Barry’s funeral and celebration of life are on Saturday, March 21st, 2026, with visitation and service being held at Racine Assembly of God, 1325 Airline Road. Visitation will be from 9:00am until the service, starting at 11:00 am, with a luncheon to follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations can be made to Royal Family Kids Camp, a camp for abused and neglected foster children in the Racine area, sponsored by Racine Assembly of God.
Don and Judy Kirby says
Our prayers are with you.
Felicia Antonio says
WOW you left too soon! I miss seeing your smile already!!! Prayers for all your Family! The years in college were the best ever to meet you and so many more!!! Felicia Antonio (Felicia Gonzales)
Paul Nolden says
Sorry to hear about your loss. I worked for Ron as Mechanical Engineering Intern in the early 90’s and got to know Chris who also worked there at the time. While I don’t recall meeting Barry, I am sure he was a wonderful man. My prayers are with you and your family. May the peace of Jesus be with you all.
Ministers Mike & Cheryl McCrary says
With heartfelt prayers and condolences, we are also praying for the Lord’s arms of comfort, peace and love upon you and your family.
Psalm 116:15, “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.”
Love & blessings in Christ.
Scott Fredeman says
My memories of Barry was when i went on some camping trips with some of his friends. I got along great with Barry and shared many laughs together. I met his wife Heather at that time who had a lot of positive energy. I know this is a difficult time for his entire family and my prayers are with you!
Jan Gnacinski says
Heather and family: So sorry to hear about your loss. Barry was a great guy. I remember when he taped my daughter’s wedding for us! May the Lord Jesus comfort all of you!
Dr. David Johnson, the oldest cousin of the Fechner clan. says
Heather, I am so sorry to hear the loss of your loving husband. I am glad however, that you’ve had many years together that were enjoyable. That is a great addition to a good life so I wish you family comfort during this difficult time of loss.
Patricia Black says
Heather & boys: to say that “I’m sorry” is so small, in the face of such tremendous grief. I pray God’s healing & comfort for each of you.
Sent with much love…
Karen Vincer says
You have my deepest sympathy for Barry’s passing. May he rest in peace. Barry helped me with my video and creation of a DVD for a small business. He was so encouraging and I loved working with him. He always talked about his love of his wife and children.
Paul Rasmussen says
Became friends with Barry as students at UW Parkside and through Inter varsity. Upon graduation we stayed friends for a season losing touch in the mid 90’s.
Was blessed to see the infancy of his business and watch from afar as he grew the business. Very proud of what he did as businessman and as husband and father.
Stunned to hear of his passing. Praying God grants peace to his family and comforted knowing that Barry is in paradise with lord and savior Jesus Christ.
Till we meet again.
Steve & Leah Olson says
We are very saddened to hear about Barry. We have confidence that he is with God now, and we pray that you and your family feels God’s comfort during this difficult time.
Alberto Alcala says
Words dont discribe how much I loved working with you. I miss you brother.
Prayers for all your Family. Love you all.
Your friend,
Alberto Alcala
Tom Schwartz says
Thinking of you all. Our condolences 🙏.
Tom & Rita Schwartz
Rev. Carl and Katherine Sanderson and Margaret Heinze says
Our condolences to you, Heather and your sons. Our hearts are heavy in loss for you and Barry’s family.
Barry was a brother in Christ who we shared time with when we lived in Wisconsin. He stood in our wedding with us, and always enjoyed catching back up with him when we visited back home. He was a precious friend who will be greatly missed. We will remember always His kindness and loving heart. We know that he has only gone “home” before us and will see again when we too “get Home”!
John P. Smith says
I’m just now finding out about this. I’m so sorry to hear this horrible news. I’m deeply saddened, and will remember with great fondness the times we spent together.