My friend Michael Barriault was one of Portland’s most passionate photographers. He captured the sizzle of food and the drama of politics always from what he considered the ultimate vantage point, even if it was way up in the rafters. As one of Portland’s most active food bloggers, his work was an exciting addition to the Portland food scene at PortlandTown.blogspot.com.

“He was fearless,” said his wife Toby Rosenberg. He was also uncensored and spontaneous – occasionally a social time-bomb. But he was our time bomb, and much beloved.

He loved good food and wine, and was forever bringing us ¼ bottles of wine from Micucci’s, saying, “You gotta try this!” At left is the last photo we took together at the Italian Life Expo. The mussels were briny and beautiful, and I couldn’t resist sampling a few. It wrecked the shot. With trademark manic energy, Michael dashed off to find an unsullied plate, better light, and less-greedy assistant.

Mikey was quirky, irascible, loving, long-winded, and extremely generous. He was a big man in a small body whose proud spirit will be sorely missed and remembered with much delight — forever. •