Brian Stephen Marek

Following his ELHI years, Brian was quite focused on furthering his education which prompted him towards the path of university training. Being fond of the colors green & white, Brian was ecstatic the day he learned that these would now be his new school colors having been accepted to the prestigious Michigan State University. After four years of devout studying and working diligently towards his educational goals, Brian proudly earned his Bachelor’s of Science Degree from the Eli Broad School of Business. But school wasn’t over yet. From there, Brian was accepted for the Master’s program at Walsh College where he ultimately achieved his degree in accounting.

With two distinguished degrees under his belt and a willingness to put his knowledge and work ethics to the task, Brian was pleased and honored the day he was invited to join the Sherwin-Williams family of businesses. Working his way up the ladder, Brian’s latest promotion had found him attaining the esteemed position of Regional Area Controller, a true testament to this dedicated and loyal employee and leader. Brian loved what he did and enjoyed being able to engage others along the way. His job came with many perks, but perhaps none as special as the many business trips that took him all around the globe. From the many beautiful parts of our great United States of America, to such places as Europe, South America, Asia, and so many more, Brian was constantly having to pinch himself just to be assured,…yes, this is truly happening. Yet of all the destinations that filled his travel portfolio, one of his favorites and most memorable was definitely Krakow, Poland. Steeped in rich history and an abundance of beautiful scenery, Brian found Krakow to be both provocative and pleasing as it represented the roots of his Polish heritage for which he was most proud.

When it came to his favorite pastimes, they were pretty much enveloped in the world of sports. If you knew Brian, then there was no question about his love and penchant for the game of soccer. An avid player from childhood, he simply got better with age and still enjoyed the game today. And not just with soccer but in all sporting venues, Brian was ultra-competitive in most everything he engaged,…like in his running. Competing in marathons, half-marathons and 5K races, he often had others eating his dust as he ran by them like they were standing still. HA! But seriously,…those competitive juices are what kept him going, kept him strong, and helped him achieve some great sporting heights. Following his participation in a Chicago Triathlon, it wasn’t long before Brian would add the sports of swimming and cycling to his workout regimen as well. But as he grew a bit older and started seeking less impacting exercises, that’s when he discovered the joys of hiking. It was an interesting new world of both a walking workout coupled with the pleasures of taking in beautiful scenery in the process,…and this was never more enjoyed than when he hiked the trails amidst the splendor of California’s breathtaking Lake Tahoe.

A loving son, brother, uncle and nephew, Brian leaves us far too soon, but not without imparting the best of himself into the hearts and souls of all who knew him and were loved by him. From work to play, family to friends, Brian had his own signature on life and it was written on the hearts of those whose paths he shared along the way. He was as passionate as he was competitive,…meek as he was strong,…and loving as he was wise. Though his stay here was short, still,…Brian leaves behind a legacy of love that is as meaningful and impactful as if he were 100 years old. In his own way, he touched a multitude of lives in his journey this side of Heaven. May he now enjoy the blessings on the other side as he rests safely in the arms of God.    

Brian was the beloved son of Stephen & Nanci Marek. Loving brother of Dr. Lorri (Dr. Jonathan Kagan) Marek-Kagan. Cherished uncle of Max, Amelia & Madeline. Dearest nephew of David Marek, Dr. Arnold (Mary) Bansen, Paul (Dr. Brian Frol) Lukasiewicz, Dr. Craig (Susan) Hartrick, and Kevin (Laura) Lukasiewicz. He is also survived by many loving cousins and friends.

Visitation for Brian will be held Tuesday, April 20th from 3-9 pm, with a 7pm evening Vigil at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd) in Warren, Michigan. He will lie in state on Wednesday from 9:00 am until the time of his Funeral Mass at 9:30 am at St. Blasé Catholic Church in Sterling Heights. Burial will follow at White Chapel Cemetery in Troy, Michigan.

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