Brian Page Leazier, 89, died June 16, 2026. He was born September 20, 1936, in Sault Sainte Marie, to Essie and James, and was raised in the rural community of Hulburt, Michigan, in the Upper Peninsula. Those early years shaped a steady, outdoors-minded life—one rooted in simple pleasures, hard work, and a deep appreciation for the place that raised him.
From an early age, Brian found joy outside and took naturally to the traditions of the Upper Peninsula. He became an avid hunter, taking his first deer at age 11. He graduated from Hulburt School in 1955, where he was an important member of the basketball team and earned the nickname “Crazy legs.”
After graduation, Brian enlisted in the United States Navy and served from 1955 to 1959. Upon returning home in 1959, he briefly worked as a log truck driver before joining a road construction team—work that proved to be his calling. He spent much of his working life in road construction and retired at age 62, known for the kind of dependable effort that speaks more loudly than words.
Mary moved to Hulburt with her family when she was 9, and it was there that she met Brian. They began dating in 1956 and were married in 1961. Together they welcomed three children, with their first born in 1963. Brian took great pride in being a father and later found immense joy in becoming a grandparent. Doug remembers the hunting trips around Michigan shared with his dad, and Melissa remembers the daddy-daughter dates—times that reflected Brian’s quiet devotion and the warmth he carried for his family.
In retirement, Brian and Mary purchased a motor home and traveled around the country for 10 years, especially enjoying Texas and any destination that brought them close to family. Whether on the road or at home, Brian’s days were often marked by the things he loved: hunting, ice fishing, card games like Cribbage, and the satisfaction of keeping a well-maintained lawn.
Brian is survived by his wife, Mary Leazier; son, Doug (Renee) Leazier; daughter, Melissa (Gary) Maxey; grandchildren, Selena (Stephen), Jacob, Matthew (Julie), and Tucker, Joe (Marissa), Mike (April); and 10 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Lori Leazier, 11 brothers and sisters, and son-in-law, Jim Bruner.
A Visitation will take place on June 22nd at East Saugatuck Christian Reformed Church (3815 56th St. Holland, MI 49423) Beginning at 11:30 with a funeral service to follow beginning at 1PM.
