Jody. Your kindness and generosity to others have been the greatest I've ever known. I pray that others will remember that about you and will lend you a hand when you are overwhelmed with work and comfort you when you are overcome with grief each day during the tough road ahead. I have seen great strength in you. Access that strength and lean on those who love you. In my thoughts, you're never more than a whisper away. God's peace to you.

As Brian's birthday approaches, special memories float to the surface.
There was the day (as a young boy), he tried to teach me to fish at a lake near Chickasha, Oklahoma. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't cast, but we both enjoyed our time special day at the lake with Brian catching the fish. In the same town, Brian particularly liked a giant, old abandoned house that I liked to photograph and he liked to make up scary stories about. 

Although he didn't have the opportunity to travel out of Oklahoma much, I enjoy thinking about a trip he and I took to New Mexico and Arizona where he painted with my mother and I in her huge studio in the desert and we saw and did many things. Memories of trips to a cabin at Lake Wister and times when we laughed ourselves silly when we walked and skipped around the YMCA chanting "We're off to see the wizard" and portions of other movie tunes bring a smile to my face. I cherish the memories, home videos, cards and letters. I'll always remember how proud and joyful he was when he saw me graduate with my master's degree. Most of all I'll remember the love he blessed me with. I will hold that in my heart forever and the vision of his incredible smile that was brighter than any candle.

Remembering Brian on his birth month. My stepson, Brian, had artistic talent, inherited from his mother (Jody) and his grandmother (Joan Burr) -- both awesome artists. I never got to collaborate on a welded art project with Brian, Jody, and I -- all three of us together. I know that the result would have been something wonderful. I'm glad that his mother and I have some of his paintings and that Jody has his hand print in clay that he made and gave her for Mother's Day when he was 5 years old.

Dear Aunt Jody: My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. I remember Brian fondly and will forever cherish my memories of us playing as kids and his sweet smile, always laughing and clowning around. I will continue to pray for peace and comfort for you. Love, Kristie

Dearest sister Jody, Death leaves a heartache that's hard to heal, but love leaves a memory that no one can steal. I want you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers and my heart aches for your loss. I will always remember my nephew Brian as a loving and caring young man who had a big heart.  Thinking of Brian as a little boy, brings a smile to my heart. Brian always had a smile that could brighten your day. I have many fond memories of Brian and he will be greatly missed. Be comforted knowing that he is in the loving arms of the Lord. May you always hold fond and happy memories of all your special time together.

Dear Jody:  I am so sorry about Brian's passing.  In spite of the hard times he endured, he sounded like a loving soul.  We were particularly touched by the memorial poem you wrote for him, which I include here, below.  Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.  Love, Spike Steingasser - Los Angeles CA 
Snow has bent the trees in grief.
Your journey on this earth
has ended too soon, Brian.
There's no solace in the sun
nor wisdom in the wind.

When I last saw your face,
it looked older, dreams 
gone from your eyes,
hope lost in hollowness
on your cheeks.

How many times have I
wondered where you were,
to what memories you wandered,
heart scarred by life's disappointments,
mind muddled by that which took you?

What is there left to say?
Life will never be the
same without you, Brian --
your voice never to be heard again.
I will hold you in my heart forever.

Jody, Your memorium for Brian was touching and beautiful. So was your Celebration of Life gathering for him. Having participants write messages that were sent up in helium-filled balloons into the air was uplifting and such a touching way to honor your son. Throughout the years I have known you, I have witnessed a caring and generous person. You have touched so many lives. I couldn't ask for a better friend (sister, really).  I love you would do anything for you!  I also remember how you were there for Brian when he had his bicycle accident a couple of years ago, giving him love (and material things that he needed). I know that meant a lot to him. Brian would be proud of you -- his mom -- having her art on the cover of Beads on a String: Peace, Joy, and Love published this year with 5 of your poems in that book, not to mention other books with your art and poetry. My heart is with you and David (your soul mate, best friend and husband). Keep up your writing and art, Jody. It will help you through this dark time. 
Evelyn Gabai, Producer, Animation Television/Screen Writer,Los Angeles, California

Jody, your tribute to Brian touched everyone who read it. I am so sorry for your loss. There are no words.
I pray that time will ease the pain and his precious memory in better times be the angel message of abiding peace that wraps you in condolence. Prayers continue & Love, Catherine

In memory of Brian. May his life fill you hearts with light and joyful memories. Love you all.

Jody - your poem to Brian was lovely, but heart breaking.  I was greatly saddened to learn of his death.  I'm praying he will have a safe journey to his Heavenly home and also praying that you will have signs from him as we continue down this road called life.  Remember that Earth's loss is Heaven's gain.  God bless you.  Love and prayers, Virginia Fulton

Sorry to hear of your loss. 
Your family is in our thoughts.
Brian was an old friend and will be missed.
I hope he has found peace.

Brian will be missed dearly! He was so loved by many. Sad to see such an angel go so early.

Mike, I am so very sorry and am praying for you and your family.

Mike, So sorry to hear about your loved one. My prayers are with you and your family.

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Judy McReynolds (Broken Arrow, OK)

OBITUARY

Brian M Dressler

April 26, 1979 – March 1, 2015

Primrose Funeral Service & Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery

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