Michael Barriault passed away this weekend after a fight with cancer. Barriault was well known in the Portland food community for the photos he published on PortlandTown of special events and the every day happenings of the Portland food scene. He will be missed.
Services are taking place at Congregation Bet Ha’am in South Portland on Sunday.
The Forecaster, where he worked as a photographer, has posted an article today about Michael,
But it was all part of what made Michael who he was: dedicated, reliable, creative, passionate and one of a kind. It was what made having him around so entertaining and rewarding for those who worked with him. He only turned assignments down when he and Toby were traveling, or doing a large local show. We relied on him and always expected the unexpected from him.
Several customers of The Salt Exchange have posted their memories of Michael on the TSE Facebook wall and there is an online guestbook on Legacy.com.
An obituary for Michael appeared in the Press Herald and in The Forecaster,
Michael’s photos enlivened the pages of such publications as The Forecaster, Maine Magazine and Downeast as well as many restaurant websites. One of Portland’s most active food bloggers, his luscious images became an exciting addition to the local food scene through his blog: www.PortlandTown.blogspot.com.
Michael, his smile, and his enthusiasm for documenting the Portland food scene will be missed!
Sad Day. Loved his photos and sense of place.
Sadly, I never got the chance to run into him at an event but I loved his photos. A definite loss to the food community in town.
We’re terribly sorry to hear this. We had no idea he was sick, as he’s been so active in the last few years. We’ll miss his photos.
What a loss. He will be truly missed.
I never met Michael in person but was a follower of his blog and enjoyed his work. He seemed like a class act. I send my condolences.
Very sad news to hear today about Michael’s passing. Food events in the Portland area won’t be the same without him. On the reporting end we’ll all miss the colorful and fun images he captured of the festivities going on around town. And as participants involved in pulling off the events, I know we’ll all miss his wonderful grin and congenial way of coaxing out a relaxed pose while under pressure to get our tables ready for guests. Nothing can replace the gift he gave us all to remember to have fun while we work.
Thank You all for your condolences and memories of my husband, Michael. I will miss sitting at his computer , late at night, as he was selecting photos for his blog posts. It is rare when someone can share a viewpoint so intimately. He made every event sparkle and every food preparation at a great chef’s hands look delectable. Many’s the time I would say ” I have to try that dish. How quick can we go eat there? ” If you wish to honor Michael, eat a great meal, drink a lovely glass of wine, smile warmly at someone and laugh. ( And go to the doctor for regular check-ups.
His memorial service will be at Congregation Bet Ha’am , 81 Westbrook St, South Portland Me. at 1 PM Sunday , Sept. 25