Dean Barnett: Mr. Perfect

Human Events ^ | 10/28/08 | D. R. Tucker

[MartinaMisc]

Finally, I understand why people say that those who pass away at a young age died “too soon.”

Prior to Monday, October 27, I would tell myself that those who died young simply passed away at their particular “time.” Even when someone passed away at an exceedingly young age—like the singer and actress Aaliyah Haughton, who perished in a plane crash in August 2001 at the age of 22—I’d rationalize it by saying that it was their time to go.

I cannot do that anymore. At the very least, I cannot do that now.

Dean Barnett is no longer with us. It was not his time. It could not have been his time.

Barnett, the brilliant pundit and talk-radio host who became one of the first true stars of the conservative blogosphere, passed away years before he hit his prime. We will never know how large of an icon he would have become.

What we do know is that he was a flawless writer who packed every column and blog post with humor and high intellect. Everything he wrote was must-read material. It’s hard to say that about even the most prominent political writers on both sides of the aisle.

It is a testament to Barnett’s greatness that I cannot recall even one subpar or substandard column he penned. He never had an off-day in terms of his writing. Some conservative writers are excellent. Barnett was perfect.

[keepitreal]

A great tribute to a wonderful man. Dean will be missed.

[ggekko60506]

An unwelcome blow. RIP.

[Bush Revolution]

I absolutely loved him. I too, enjoyed everything he wrote. I also loved when he filled in for Hugh. I was listening on the fateful Friday that was his last broadcast on Hugh's show, but he was amazing as usual. I pray for his family and friends comfort at this tremendous loss.

[HelloooClareece]

He was a treasure.

RIP Dean. Say hi to Tony for us.

[Melian]

I enjoyed him so much; I was stunned to hear of this. What a loss to the country. May he rest in peace and may perpetual light shine upon him.

Prayers for his family— and all of us.

[RichInOC]

I think Dean himself would say that, physically, he lived so far past what should have been his time it was ridiculous. That said, God be good to you, Soxbloggah. You will be missed.

[FlyVet]

I listened to him sub for Hewitt several times. He seemed like the kind of man you wouldn't mind having for a next-door neighbor (and his illness probably played a part in his humility).

Never even knew he had such a severe health problem until Hewitt said he was in the hospital in critical condition. He never brought it up.

RIP, Mr. Barnett, may God bless your family, and I count my blessings once again.

[Christian4Bush]

bump