Born on May 23, 1975 in Kirkwood, Missouri, Brian was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished son, brother, and friend. Above all, Brian’s greatest joy was his family. He shared his life with his beloved wife, Betsy, and was a proud and loving father to their daughter, Chloe. The love he had for them was immeasurable, and the life and memories they created together will forever be treasured.
Throughout his life, Brian held many different jobs, but none brought him greater pride or fulfillment than his role as “Mr. Brian,” the head of security at Woodland Elementary. It was more than a job to Brian—it was a place where he felt a true sense of purpose. He took tremendous pride in helping keep the students and staff safe and in being a familiar, reassuring presence in their school each day. Being known simply as “Mr. Brian” was a title he treasured, and the relationships he formed and the lives he touched at Woodland Elementary were deeply meaningful to him. Brian always had a magnificent smile, high five or a hug for all who knew him.
Brian was an avid outdoorsman. He loved fishing, hunting (even though he was a vegetarian), archery and camping. And fire! Brian’s nickname as a child was “Torch.” Brian excelled at task-oriented projects and earned the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America. He proudly hiked multi-day trek at Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico twice.
Brian was also a man of deep faith, with a personal relationship with Jesus Christ that was an important part of his life. His faith gave him hope, strength, and comfort, especially during difficult times. He trusted in the promises of his faith and found peace in knowing that his life was in God’s hands. Those who loved Brian can find comfort in knowing that the faith that sustained him throughout his life carried him home.
Brian is survived by his wife, Betsy; his precious daughter, Chloe; mother, Cindy; brother, Brent; brother- and sisters-in-law, Grant, Julie and Jaci; as well as his cherished nieces and nephews, Emma, Matthew, Claire, Hannah, Henry, Lucy, Patrick and Mary Ann. He was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth; his mother-in-law, Linda; and his beloved grandparents.
Brian will be remembered for the love he gave, the memories he created, his faith, and the special place he held in the lives of those who knew him. His absence leaves an immeasurable void, but his spirit will live on through his family, the Woodland Elementary students and staff whose lives he touched, and the countless memories they will carry with them.
Brian’s life was far too short, but the love, kindness, friendship, and faith he shared during his 51 years will last a lifetime. He is deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.
A Memorial visitation will be held at Edward Swanson & Son Funeral Home, 30351 Dequindre Road, Madison Heights, MI 48071, on August 23, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm, followed by a Funeral Service at the same location on August 23, 2026, at 4:00 pm.
A memorial service in his hometown will be held at a date later this fall.
