Over the years kayaking on the Colorado River brought Brian peace and the lively socialization at a gaming table brought him energy. The one constant for Brian was the joy he found when crafting song lyrics and collaborating with friends. Brian Tabach lived for the song that was yet to come and will always be remembered for his musical passions. Sadly Brian passed away with his brother at his side on June 21.
In 1973, Brian made it to the Top 20 Easy Listening Chart with Loving Naturally, a song co-written with Byron Walls. The duo recorded under the name Sandalwood. However, friends and family recall a handsome 13-year-old Brian with his new guitar in hand and eager to sing the popular folk songs of the day. He would follow this passion throughout the 1970s, as he styled himself, complete with mustache, as a Jim Croce cover artist, playing to intimate audiences in the Iowa and Colorado college scene.
For several years, before relocating west, he worked with friend Judi Brown through the Iowa Arts Council to bring music into the lives of children. Then in the mid-1990s, he launched his fulltime teaching career with Clark County School District; a high point for him was being a member of the inaugural faculty of Bob Bailey Middle School. Brian was born July 17, 1943, in Los Angeles, California to spent most of his childhood in Des Moines, Iowa. He graduated from Des Moines Roosevelt High School, University of Iowa, and attained a master’s in education at Drake University. Brian is predeceased by his father Sydney Tabach, his mother Dorris Gordin Bonfigli, and sister Barbara Bonfigli. He is survived by brother Barney (Barbara) Tabach, sister Anne Tabach, and stepmother Geraldine Tabach, and sister-in-law Marilynn Preston. He is remembered by his niece Maggie (Dawid) Tabach Lopes, and nephews Anthony (Kari) Tabach, and Max Tabach. In lieu of flowers please make donations to one of the following is appreciated: Jewish Family Services of Las Vegas (jfsalv.org) or Nathan Adelson Hospice (nah.org) or National Kidney Foundation (kidney.org).
