| You
Taught the World To Play Darts
Barry Twomlow was part teacher, part showman, part salesman
and part communicator. Blessed with marvelous "people
skills", he connected with people at every level. Local
pub players, darts organizers, manufacturers and professionals
alike, had great respect for the "genial giant"
--- who gave patiently and unceasingly of his time and talent,
to teach darts … to promote darts … to infuse
a love for darts … and ultimately, to sell darts (preferably
Unicorn, of course!!)
Barry, perhaps your most endearing quality was your outgoing
personality … yet warm and humble manner. Those who
knew you, marveled at your uncanny ability to remember virtually
everyone you ever met! They admired your dedication and willingness
to go "above and beyond the call of duty" --- whether
gathering autographs in a special tournament program, for
a physically challenged darts enthusiast, in Seattle …
or arranging for Tom and me to deliver a US silver dollar
to the daughter of a friend, in Australia. You 'cared', Barry,
and thereby garnered the love, respect and admiration of the
world-wide darts community.
I have known you for 34 years. Ironically, you left us just
34 days after we lost Tom! What's more, your funeral will
take place on the same day as Tom's Committal Service. There
is no denying your "brotherly" connection!!
I will miss you, 'Basil'. For years, you willingly chauffeured
the Fleetwoods all over England … and nearly sent me
through the wind shield, the first time you drove our Cadillac,
with power brakes! I admired the gracious enthusiasm with
which you shared your darts wisdom, in a rural English pub
… and challenged your interpreter, as you captivated
a stage full of young, wheelchair-bound darters, in Japan.
I watched you pick fresh limes from my back yard tree, in
California … and fresh strawberries, in Kent, while
wearing your Sunday suit!
Tom and I shared our California redwoods with you and Maggie
… and, just over one year ago, watched as you planted
two new roses in my garden. I well remember how gently and
lovingly you cradled our Sarah, as a newborn … and shared
your pride in the lovely young woman my goddaughter has become.
'Bowie', you enriched my life with your loyal friendship.
Losing both you and Tom is nothing short of a bad dream!!
Thankfully, the two of you have left Maggie and me with a
treasure-trove of wonderful memories. You will live on in
our hearts, forever.
Rest in peace, my friend.
Della Fleetwood |
