Brian Craig Thorne

He leaves his wife, Laurie Brzeczkowski Thorne and son Adam. He was undeniably devoted to both of them and it was this devotion that defined Brian’s life.

A true lover of life and a humorous storyteller, Brian was so much to so many people. His friends describe him as nothing but kind, loving, caring, and a consistent source of positivity: he was the family man you admired, the friend you hoped to be and the neighbor you wanted to have. When Laurie married Brian, he came with a Santa suit and spent the next 30+ years delighting children throughout the community with surprise visits from Santa. Any Pack 115 scout will remember Brian as an enthusiastic Cubmaster who oversaw spirited pinewood derby competitions, snowy winter camping trips and Boy Scout bridging ceremonies. Whether a child on “Santa’s” knee, a Cub Scout in his pack or being tossed around when he played “the water mule” at the community pool, his good nature and warmth drew many to him and influenced a generation of young adults.

Quick to lend a helping hand, Brian was a member of Community United Methodist Church where he served as an usher; in addition, he mentored the South River High School Power Hawks Robotics Team 1111 and volunteered at Hospice of the Chesapeake. An incredible cook and host, Brian could also be counted on to share a cocktail or two when the opportunity arose – like the time he cleverly crafted Hurricanes when a tropical storm blew through. As a DuVal High School graduate, Brian helped organize his class reunions and loved gathering with former classmates at their monthly luncheons. He enjoyed playing poker with his buddies and swapping stories with the regulars at the dog park, accompanied by his pandemic puppy, Bella. More importantly, he was the dear friend who provided support before you realized you needed it.

Brian was born to Niles DeWitt Thorne and Mildred Eileen (nee Miller) Thorne. After his graduation from high school Brian served in the U.S. Air Force and ultimately became an airman in the 12th Security Police Squadron at Cam Ranh Bay during the height of the Vietnam War.

After serving his country and graduating from the University of Maryland, Brian began what would become a lifelong career in millwork sales. His friendly nature allowed him to develop clients who became lifelong friends. It was during his sales career that he met his future wife, Laurie, at a building material trade show.

Brian served in various leadership positions with the Veteran Security Police Association, which was founded in 1995 by a former Vietnam “hooch mate”. From leading parades to washing The Wall with other veterans, he never wavered in his commitment to honor fellow service members. He looked forward to spending time and reconnecting with his “brothers” at their annual reunions, including the most recent one this past October in Phoenix.

Brian was a devoted family man, a beloved brother and uncle. In addition to Laurie and Adam, he leaves his sisters, Carlyn (Ron) Kreiger of Roswell, Georgia, Sandy (Tim) McCarthy of Annapolis, Maryland and Wanda Hendrickson of King George, Virginia. He also leaves his mother-in-law, Carolyn Baumann of Mentor, Ohio, four brothers-in-law, their spouses and a host of nieces and nephews, including great nieces and nephews. Brian also leaves his former wife, Val Cranmer, of West Creek, New Jersey. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends who are all grateful and richer for the privilege of having shared his life.

Funeral arrangements are as follows:

Robert E. Evans Funeral Home

16000 Annapolis Road

Bowie, Maryland 20715

Viewings: Monday, December 26th from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. and from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

The funeral service will be at Robert E. Evans on Tuesday, December 27th at 11:00 a.m.

Interment will be at Crownsville Veterans Ceremony, 1122 Sunrise Beach Road, Crownsville, Maryland on Friday, January 6, 2023 @ 10:00 a.m.

The family suggests memorial contributions to:

VSPA (Vietnam Security Police Association)

JJ Chestnut Memorial Scholarship Fund

c/o Richard Garcia

400 Jefferson Street

Massapequa, NY 11758-5447

Or

Salvation Army

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.robertevansfuneralhome.com for the Thorne family.