Brian G. A. Culannay

“Seeing is believing.” For many, those words simply represent a motto. But for Brian Gilbert Agustin Culannay, it summarized in every way who he was. He was modest, quiet and observant, taking in everything around him and always thinking before acting. He was a realist, someone who was efficient and practical in everything he did. He was a friendly person who truly cared about those around him.

Brian was born on November 11, 1979 at Kapiolani Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawai'i. He was the son of Evangeline Culannay and Bernardo Alegado (Deceased). Raised in Ewa Beach and Honolulu, Hawai'i, he was brought up to be tolerant and trustworthy. As a child, he learned to be conscientious, responsible and punctual. These were all traits that he would carry with him throughout his life. As a young boy, Brian was always aware of how others around him felt and this quality served him well. Preferring a quiet environment where he could concentrate, Brian also had the ability to relate well with his family and friends. Brian was raised with his brother, Oliver Culannay.

Brian was never pushy when it came to games and other activities, but rather, he was able to enjoy the pure fun these could bring. In just about everything he did as a child, Brian was intent on pleasing both the adults and the other children around him. Brian took part in a number of activities as a child. He took part in Basketball. He was a member of the Japanese International Karate Club of Hawai'i. In his spare time he liked video games. Brian's memorable achievements included obtaining a Black belt in Karate at age 8.

He graduated from James Campbell High School in 1997. His favorite class in high school was physical education. During this time, he played in Junior Varsity Basketball. He earned his Associates Degree in Criminal Justice from Remington College of Hawai'i, and then studied bartending at Bartender Academy Hawaii.

Most folks would say that Brian was shy until they got to know him. Those who were privileged to know him well learned that he was a solid, good friend. Brian was reluctant to generalize about people, and he based his friendships on his personal experiences. Because of this, Brian best trusted those people that he truly knew. The friends that he made, Brian kept. While growing up, some of his best friends were Oliver B, Francis G, Irwin S, Vilmero M.

Brian married Valerie Mae Rocha on July 18, 2013 in Las Vegas, Nevada. He was a good father to his children. He seemed to radiate an aura of warmth and caring to those around him, always thinking before acting. In addition, Brian was a master planner. No matter how hectic life around him might be, he seemed to know and track everyone’s schedule. Brian was blessed with two sons, Ryder and Dylan.

His primary occupation was the Assistant General Manager (NRSI) at Dotty's and at Red Dragon. He was employed in this position for over ten years. Brian was good at staying on track and was considerate in listening to what others had to say. In this way, Brian had a true gift for being able to come up with practical resolutions to difficult problems. He was often the team member who managed to put forth a win/win solution for all parties.

Brian liked to experience things first hand, in addition to simply learning about them. This quality influenced Brian's choice of leisure time activities. His favorite pursuits were being a racing car enthusiast and getting his dream car, a Nissan GT-R.

While thorough and measured in his approach to things, Brian often liked to physically do things rather than just think about them. He was like that with sports. Recreational sports included basketball and was something of a sports fan, and enjoyed watching his favorite teams whenever he got the opportunity. Tops on his list were basketball and football.

Due to his excellent organizational skills, Brian was a welcome addition to the professional and community organizations to which he belonged. Brian could bring established, successful methods to the discussion table, along with a generous helping of common sense. He was an active member of the Vegas GT-Rs, SMG (Sexii Munkii Garage), and Battalion 30 Five NV.

An individual who respected and maintained traditional values, his faith was important to Brian. His compassion, consideration and sympathy toward others was evident in his personal beliefs. He was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church for over ten years.

Anyone who traveled or went on vacation with Brian had smooth sailing. It was often taken for granted that he was the trip planner. He would start early and examine all of the possibilities, selecting the best and most effective options. Favorite vacations included trips back home to Hawai'i.

Brian had Chowie, a Chihuahua Shihtzu mix, who was his best friend for four years. His family was rounded out by his Rambo, a Pomeranian and Mana, Lancashire Terrier. Brian was as loyal to his pets as they were to him.

Brian passed away on February 8, 2023 at Las Vegas, Nevada. The cause of Brian's death is still pending investigation. He is survived by his mother, Evangeline; brother, Oliver; Valerie, mother of his two children; Ryder and Dylan, his sons; and cousins in Las Vegas; Shaun and Jon Stanley. Services will be held at Christ the King Catholic Church. Brian will be laid to rest in Palm Eastern Cemetery.

It is said that some people can’t see the forest for the trees. Brian was able to focus on each individual tree, tending to its needs, thus making the forest stronger as a whole. Brian was a trustworthy, pragmatic and sympathetic person, the kind of man to whom everyone was drawn. He was thorough and practical. Brian Culannay was very literal with his words. You always knew where you stood with Brian. He will be missed.