Tim “Barrel Man” McKernan, an avid Broncos fan who was known for wearing a barrel, cowboy hat, cowboy boots and not much else, died in his sleep this morning of lung failure. He was 69.

McKernan, a former United Airlines mechanic, began wearing a barrel in 1977 after making a $10 bet with his brother, Scott, that by wearing one he could get on television.

McKernan won the bet and the barrel he had painted to look like an Orange Crush soda can became his signature costume and resulted in him becoming one of the Broncos’ most recognized fans and a popular mascot.

“He liked the attention, he loved inspiring the fans and had a take-charge attitude,” said Tim’s son, Todd McKernan, who said he was 17 when his dad first donned the costume.

“My kids grew up knowing grandpa in the barrel,” he added.

The elder McKernan had attended Broncos games since 1967 and had only missed four. In 2003, an aneurysm left him in the intensive care unit at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction . He was confined to a wheelchair and placed on oxygen, but later recovered.

About six years ago, he was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, or scarring of the lung. this past September, his breathing became more difficult. He was hospitalized, but came home three weeks ago to receive hospice care, his family said.

In 2007, McKernan retired his barrel and was honored by the Broncos during a halftime show where he was presented with a team football and other gifts and lots of fan appreciation that moved him to tears.

A memorial service for McKernan is pending

Annette Espinoza: 303-954-1655 or aespinoza@denverpost.com