The passing of Marianne Barber of Joule Electra

Yes, a terrible loss for her family and the audio community. God bless.

I met and became friends with Jud nearly 20 years ago. Not long after that I met Marianne and was welcomed into their home. Through the years, I was fortunate to see her many times, either in North Augusta or Las Vegas (CES). Marianne was one of those rare persons who just about everyone instantly liked. That was because she gave what she received, an honest, open-hearted caring about those who entered her life. Just read the responses from those who only met her through one or two phone conversations. As I suggested in another venue, Marianne was like a mother hen, ready to draw her family and friends alike in under her wings.

So as we remember Marianne, let us also remember Jud in this time of tremendous loss. Carry on good buddy with the undying love of a wonderful wife/partner and the empathy and support of more people than you'll ever know.

In 1964, I was working for a chemical company in Augusta Ga. when a young Chemical Engineer came to work at the company. That young engineer was Jud Barber. A fast friendship soon formed between us and we have remained best friends for 43 years. In 1977 Jud married Marianne and this started one of the greatest love affairs ever witnessed.
My wife and I live only 55 miles from Jud and over the years the four of us became family. My wife and I share Jud's grief over the untimely loss of a beautiful, joyful, and lovely lady in every respect.Not only has the Audio world lost a wonderful person and friend, but those of us who knew her personnaly for these many years ,not only feel a great loss, but at the same time we cherish the wonderful memories of shared times together. Marianne will be greatly missed.

I met Jud and Marianne several years ago and became known as one of the "California Guys". Every time I have spent with Jud and Marianne has been one of great love and generosity on their part toward everyone around them. My sympathy goes out to the Barber family. I hope Jud will come out to California and share his great love of music and his talent for creating truly wonderful and musical instruments for us to listen to.

While I don't know Marianne personally, based on the descriptions of her attributes, I'm sure she must have been a great person. While no doubt many will miss her greatly, it is comforting to know that there is no 'death' and that she has gone to a better place.