Tony Barras
June 20, 2025
Tony Barras, a respected figure in the tradeshow labor and exhibit services community, passed away earlier this week following a battle with nasopharyngeal cancer.
Tony served as Vice President of the Labor Division at EWI Worldwide/TERM Group for more than 27 years. Prior to that, he worked at GES Exposition Services as Director of Exhibit Services. Over the course of his decades-long career, he became known for his steady leadership, operational expertise, and commitment to professionalism on the show floor.
Originally from Michigan, Tony earned a Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement from Ferris State University, where he was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. He transitioned into the events industry in the early 1990s and quickly earned the respect of peers for his hands-on knowledge and calm, solutions-focused approach.
In May 2024, Tony was diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer. Over the following year, he underwent multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation, and physical therapy. Throughout that time, the exhibit community rallied around him. A GoFundMe campaign raised thousands to assist with medical costs, reflecting the wide-reaching impact Tony had on friends and colleagues across the industry.
“This industry and this world lost a great soul on Tuesday,” said Randy Burk of Pinnacle. “Tony ALWAYS put others first, it was effortless for him. He cared so much about his friends, family and colleagues, he was great at connecting people.”
Martin Knott, an experiential industry executive and longtime friend, shared, “Tony was one of those rare people that nobody had a bad word to say about. A true gentleman and a friend to many.”
Tony is remembered by many across the tradeshow world who considered him a mentor, leader, and friend. Details about a memorial service are not yet available.
He will be deeply missed.
