Bernard “Barry” Lotterman

Dear friends,

I’m writing to share the passing of my dear friend Bernard “Barry” Lotterman, who left us on March 11, 2025. Barry was born on December 12, 1940, and lived a life full of generosity, grit, and unforgettable character.

A Vietnam Veteran, Barry returned home with a fierce independence and a heart full of stories. He styled hair, acted part-time as a SAG member, and co-founded the first 24-hour photo store on the Mesa. He later ran a vacuum cleaner shop and was a familiar face along the De La Vina corridor in Santa Barbara, where he lived for many years.

Barry was a witness at my wedding, and we shared adventures to Las Vegas and Florida—where he fell in love with bromeliads. He flew home with one, and 45 years later, that plant still thrives. Barry had a passion for swap meets, often buying odd treasures and displaying them in front of his trailer like a living collage.

Life wasn’t always kind to Barry. His family lost their Santa Monica apartment buildings in the early ’70s due to rent control. In later years, he developed medical issues and resisted help, even as his trailer became uninhabitable. Thankfully, the VA found him a warm bed and steady meals in his final months. As dementia took hold, Barry had moments of confusion and outbursts. I hope his trailer park neighbors remember the man he was and forgive the man he became.

Barry was briefly married and found joy in coaching Little League. His friendliness with children was sometimes misunderstood, but those who knew him saw the kindness at his core. He is survived by his sister Carole, who resides in Arizona.

To honor Barry’s memory, go to a swap meet and buy something you don’t need. Something odd, something charming. Something Barry would’ve loved.

See you, old friend.