Longtime political consultant Barry Horenbein passed away peacefully Thursday morning at his home in Tallahassee, Fla. He was 80. His passing ended a two-year battle with esophageal cancer. Horenbein endured his challenge with the same tenacity that friends and colleagues came to admire throughout his career. He was surrounded by family and loved ones. He lived a full and accomplished personal and professional life. 
 
Horenbein lead a dynamic life including playing baseball at University of Florida, a brief professional baseball career with the Baltimore Orioles, and a father and businessman. However, most of us will remember him as a guiding force in the legislative process that spanned half a century, nine governors, 22 speakers and 23 senate presidents. While he watched the state legislature switch from democrat to republican, his role as both advisor and advocate never changed. In a process often known for its divisiveness, Barry Horenbein will always be remembered as a man who brought people together regardless of party, race, or religion. 
 
In 2007, Horenbein was honored by the President of the Senate for his dedication and exemplary service to the Florida Senate and the people of Florida. The "Medallion of Excellence" award was only the fourth of its kind to be given out in the Florida Senate history. This was the first time the award was given to a governmental relations professional, and had previously only been given to members of the Florida Senate. Horenbein will always have a place in our hearts and in this state, as so much of what Florida looks like today was influenced by his love for this state, his family, and his friends. 
 
Horenbein and his late wife Marilyn shared a love of Tennessee Walking Horses, and raised and showed them for many years. Horinbein was active in many aspects of the horse industry as a breeder, exhibitor and judge.
 
He is survived by his daughter Tracy, his son Lance, and his sister Linda Herbert. His family is asking that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Barry Horenbein Memorial Fund at the Leon County Animal Shelter. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19, at Roselawn Cemetery in Tallahassee, Fla. The family will receive friends at a reception in honor of Mr. Horenbein, following the burial, in the MeadowWood Room at Culley's MeadowWood Timberlane Road Chapel – 700 Timberlane Road, Tallahassee, Fla.