Mason Tillman Barnhart

It is with deep sorrow and profound love that we share the passing of Mason Barnhart, who left us far too soon on March 22, 2025, at the age of 16. Born on January 23, 2009, in Riverside, California. His family, who settled in Ladera Ranch, was blessed to have him for 16 wonderful years, surrounded by love until his final days.

Mason was a kind, loving, and deeply compassionate soul, with an uncanny ability to make those around him feel heard and valued. He had a unique way of touching the hearts of everyone he met. His friends will remember him as a gentle spirit with a warm heart, always ready to listen or share in a moment of laughter. His insight and caring nature made him a friend to everyone, always going out of his way to show compassion and kindness.

Though his time with us was brief, Mason’s life was full of special memories, especially during the family trips they took together. Whether traveling to places like Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Victoria, Quebec City, Oregon, Tokyo, Nara, Osaka, or Kyoto, one of the best parts was watching Mason interact with his Uncle Tony. The two shared countless silly stories and inside jokes, always finding ways to entertain each other and bring laughter to those around them. Though Mason may not have known just how much joy he brought to everyone, his family will forever cherish those moments and hold them close in their hearts.

Mason had many passions that reflected his vibrant personality. He enjoyed riding his bikes, spending time with friends, and playing bass guitar and guitar. Music was his way of connecting with others and the world around him. He brought joy and energy into every moment, always eager to share in the experience with those he cared about.

Mason is survived by his parents, Mark and Margie Barnhart; his brother, Odin; his twin sister, Sydney; his loving aunt, Alicia Tam; his uncle, Tony Ukena; his uncle, Warren Tam; his uncle and aunt, Dave and Valerie Barnhart; his aunt, Karen Phillis; his uncle, Larry Long; and his uncle, Robert Phillis.

While our hearts are heavy with grief, we take comfort in the love and memories Mason leaves behind. He will always be with us—a beloved son, brother, nephew, friend, and soul whose spirit will never fade. He will forever soar in our hearts.

We invite all who knew and loved Mason to join us in celebrating his life on Monday, March 31, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Fairhaven Memorial Services, 27856 Center Drive, Mission Viejo. It will be a time for reflection, remembrance, and honoring the beautiful light Mason brought into this world.

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Notes to Mason’s Friends:

If you have a personal note for Mason, please bring it to the viewing. We will place these notes with him, so his spirit can carry the love and thoughts of his friends. All the notes we've already received, including those that came with flowers, will also accompany him on his journey.

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has taken the time to celebrate Mason and honor his memory. Your love and support mean more than words can express. As we navigate this heartbreaking time, it's important that you continue to support one another, lean on each other, and keep creating and sharing joyful moments — not just now, but always. Life will have its challenges, but by standing together and offering support, we can strengthen the bonds that connect us and keep Mason’s spirit alive.