Obituary of Brion Gunnar Barton

Brion Gunnar Barton, known as Gunnar to most, died at the age of 59 on January 26, 2016 in North Cape May, NJ. Raised in the Olney section of Philadelphia, he moved to Wildwood, NJ in 1982. Gunnar felt a strong connection to his Norwegian heritage – his mother, Ingeborg "Lillian" Barton (Jorgensen), emigrated from Norway in 1925. Gunnar was a talented author, poet, artist, and wood carver. He was known by many throughout Cape May County as "Tiki Gunnar". His unique tiki carvings have been seen and appreciated for years at local bars and restaurants, such as Cabanas in Cape May, The Harbor View in Cape May Harbor, and Sunset Bay in North Wildwood. Gunnar would often be seen carving his tikis at Rabbit Run on Route 47 in Rio Grande. Many admirers of his work would stop along the roadside to chat with him. Most were unaware of Gunnar's talents as a writer of inspirational poetry and as a mentor to many people throughout Cape May County. He was a true intuitive who possessed uncanny instincts. He had powerful insights when it came to those he encountered. His inspirational words touched the lives of many over the years. Gunnar's Facebook page, Lightworkers of Light, has served as a vehicle to reach an even larger audience. On his final day on Earth, Gunnar posted a poem entitled, "If I Could Begin Again". Had I known, I would have loved more. If I had remembered, I would have cherished time. If I were to have been given pardon, which I was but did not know… I would have freed myself. If I could tell you something, I will … now. There is nothing more beautiful than to simply be. You, simply you. Gunnar was a beautiful soul who touched the lives of many. He was, simply, loved. Though Gunnar has passed from this life, his work will live on and continue to inspire for years to come. Gunnar is survived by his four sisters: Sigrid Canaan, Karen Barton, Kathy Breuss, and Molly Wiseley; his two brothers: Kelly Barton and Gerald Barton; and his numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service for Gunnar will be announced in the near future. Lightworkers of Light: https://www.facebook.com/LightworkersOfLight/. To share condolences, please visit www.evoyfuneralhome.com.