John Barnickel, Jr.

John William Barnickel, Jr., age 68, passed away on April 30, 2024, surrounded by his family. John was born on November 9, 1955, in Mobile, AL to John and Jeanette Barnickel.

He was affectionately called "Big John"- a name which held much more meaning behind it to the people nearest to him. Those who spoke of Big John knew without a doubt he was a man who loved the Lord; a man who dearly loved his family; a man who always put someone else's needs before his own; and a man who would always find the positive in every situation. He loved to give to others, even if they weren't in need; and he loved talking to people, even if they hadn't spoken before. No one was ever a stranger to him, and no one could forget him once they met him. He was admired for his incredible work ethic, strength, reliability, and integrity. His handshake was his word and boy, did he have a grip! He was always only one call away and was usually the first to call you on your birthday. You could always count on him to find something to get into, and there was never a dull moment. Some of his favorite things to do when he wasn't working included riding motorcycles, raising cattle, hunting (with family, friends, or with his dogs), and just being outside. He was also notoriously known for finding value in anything and everything. The saying, "One man's trash is another man's treasure", was probably made with Big John specifically in mind. He enjoyed the little things in life and could make any situation work- especially with a little duct tape if needed. Everything he did, he did wholeheartedly and always with the best intention. He loved intently, was loved deeply, and will truly be missed. He was preceded in death by his wife, Teresa C. Barnickel; sons, Joshua S. Barnickel and Geremy L. Bowden; parents, John W. Barnickel Sr., and Jeanette V. Barnickel.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Jamie (Jason) Horstman, John (Nikki) Barnickel III, and Jaryn Barnickel; grandchildren, Jacob Horstman, Jaxon Horstman, Jase Barnickel, and Jack Barnickel; siblings, Jacoba (Alfred) Brown, Jeffrey (Kim) Barnickel, and Jolane (René) Marques; nephews, Clint (Melanie) Brown, Chris Brown, Hayden Brown, and Camden Brown; nieces Taylor (Stacy) Sergeant and Amanda Barnickel; and many other relatives and friends. 

A Memorial Celebration will be held at Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home on Thursday, May 9, 2024 from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Nurse Linda and the staff of Gentiva Hospice, as well as Dr. Adrian DiVittorio and Dr Osman Hashmi for all of their dedicated and compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that everyone bring a written story of Big John to share at the celebration that they may keep and cherish for years to come.