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Lance Brackett Obituary

Lance Vernon Brackett Passed away October 10th, 2008 at Marin General Hospital. He was 64. He had recently moved to Rohnert Park after living for over 30 years in Novato. Lance was born September 5, 1944 in Fremont, Nebraska and moved with his family to CA in 1952. After high school, he served with the U.S. Air Force and then began working as a contractor. During that time, he taught carpentry in the Carpenters' Union apprenticeship program at College of Marin. He had worked for the last 20+ years at Industrial Light and Magic in San Rafael. Lance had been a member of the Carpenters' Union and for more than twenty-five years, belonged to the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Local 16. His name appears in the credits as stage technician in many films produced by ILM, among them Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest. His personal fifteen seconds of on-screen fame can be seen in the film Young Sherlock Holmes. He was a devoted father and grandfather, a wonderful brother, a loyal friend to many. A creative, meticulous, and hard-working craftsman, he brought enthusiasm and dedication to every task and job he undertook. He had a big heart, a big voice, and a big laugh; he loved children, and they all loved him. He was intelligent, generous, cheerful, and funny. He was an avid reader. He enjoyed sports and was a long-time fan of the Novato High School football team, coached by his son. He was in the stands for every Hornets game for the past 10 years, never missing a game. He is survived by his sons, Jason of Corte Madera; Travis and wife Amy of Novato; Ryan and wife Kirianne of Petaluma, and his beloved granddaughters, Abigail and Kaiya. He was looking forward to the birth of his third grandchild in March. Other survivors include his sisters and brother and their families: Judy Crowe of Nevada City; Marva Spencer of Fernley, Nevada; Brenda Heath of Cottage Grove, Oregon; Devra Cirimeli of Daly City; David Brackett of Nevada City; and Pamela Surface of Grass Valley; as well as many nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, an aunt and two uncles, numerous cousins and friends. He is also survived by his former wife, Peggy Brackett. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon H. and Verna Brackett. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation in Lance's memory to your favorite charity. A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, October 19th at 2:00 p.m. in the Novato High School Gordon Gym.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Marin Independent Journal on Oct. 16, 2008.

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John Dougherty

December 31, 2014

I had the privilege of knowing Lance Brackett when I was a salesperson who visited with him at Industrial Light & Magic. I just came across some things that made me remember all the times we met and conducted business for over a decade and was saddened to learn of his passing. I have his ILM business card and several Christmas cards he sent me over the years and I am thankful that I spent some time with him. He taught me a lot about how to be a better salesperson and shared with me his many talents and projects. I just wanted all to know what a quality person he was and I will always remember him.

George & Maria Metlenko & Family

October 10, 2009

A tribute to our dear friend Lance
.....memories from the toughest year of are life
Our friend Lance use to joke with my husband George and I that he always wanted to have his memorial service before he died, this way he could hear all the nice things people had to say about him. I would joke with him don't look my way because surely I wouldn't be able to find one nice thing to say about him.
In reality I can't find one harsh word to say about him. His joy for life, his sense of humor, quick whit and that amazing smile and laugh, oh that laugh, of his was just a few of his qualities that people fell in love with. His advice was forth right.
His love for his sons Jason, Travis, Ryan, daughter-in-laws Amy and Kiri, granddaughters Abby and Kaiya. Abby was the apple of her grandpas eye. He would tell us stories about all the different stuff she would do, the color of the park they went to. He also reminisce about his own sons as they were growing. Even for the short time he was in Kaiya's life he just beamed with pride when he talked about her and how beautiful she is. The pride when he spoke of them was immeasurable. I use to joke with him telling him that my grandsons are cuter than his granddaughters and he would tease me that his granddaughter Abby could beat up our grandsons and that she was going to be the first female linegirl at Novato High.
George and I remember sitting having dinner at California Grill, Lance's personal chef was employed there (ha ha)and him telling us that his daughter-in-law Amy has a medical problem....there seems she had a growth growing in her uterus and it had little fingers and toes, yes another Brackett was on it's way.
As for my family we were truly bless to have a gift such as Lance in our lives. My own grandsons called him their rent-a-grandpa. He was such an important part of our entire family. Even when our own sons had health issues and surgeries he was always waiting for that phone call to make sure that they where ok and everything was fine.
He and Ryan made trips to Truckee to see our two oldest grandsons play T-ball. Both he and Ryan got the biggest laugh when T-ball became a tackling sport. He turned to us and said it must be the way these mountain boys play.
Everytime our kids and grandkids came down from Truckee he was the center of our family dinners. He would sit at the head of the table and my grandsons would want to sit next to Lance, their rent-a-grandpa, poor man he just didn't know what he was getting into. But, his love for kids was amazing and he would sit and listen to each an every story they told him with great enthusiasm.
We all would like to thank the Brackett boys' for allowing us to be a small part of your lives with this truly amazing man. He was a gift to all of us and we will truly cherish every moment that he was in our lives.
To Lance, we hope you know how much we all loved you. Thanks for being there thru both the good times and bad. This world was a better place with you in it and you were taken from all of us to early. We will always love you
and cherish our memories we had with you.
Lance, you were a person that only came along once in a lifetime, and you were truly loved and are missed.
Love you and may god bless you.

Emily St. Claire

October 10, 2009

This is original poetry with my copyright

Forever Friends

Friends are meant to enrich our lives
It’s upon their strength we draw
They are there to hold and support us
When in life’s trying times we withdraw

You can tell who your true friends are
When circumstances bring you down
They, in their own special way
Can make a smile out of that frown

When times are bad, you can’t go on
A true friend will take a stand
Convince you things will all work out
He will take you by the hand

A friend will lead you to a better place
With sun and blooming flowers
He’ll take the pain of life away
With his own special powers

We all need to be thankful
For that one special friend
The one who listens at any time
A true friend until the end

~ Emily S. St.Claire © 10/10/2009
.
You were a true friend, from beginning until the end. I can't believe its been a year. I miss our talks. I miss you.

Julie & Roger Mattson

October 9, 2009

With one year from your passing approaching, you are not forgotten Lance. We love you and miss you and hold you in our hearts and our memories always. We know you are looking over your family and that you are proud of the people they are today.

Jason, Travis, Ryan (and your families), please know you are in our thoughts as well. We love you and hope you find strength in knowing your Dad is watching over you.

Mark James

December 12, 2008

Lance Was a wonderful man, I can still remember when I was young he would take my brother and I down stairs to play with the cars on the track he had set up. I can still remember how I looked forward to seeing him when we were told we were going to visit. I am 42 years old and have only gotten to visit whith him once, and only for a breif moment since those days, That is testimony to the lasting impression he made in my life and I am sure many other peoples lives. Lance was spoken of very highly by his sons, It was nice to hear the stories they had of their dad, and to see the smiles they had on their faces when they talked of him.
Lance was a very special man and I feel blessed to have known him.
My love and prayers go out to the Brackett family.

emily st claire

November 27, 2008

My Angel With a Broken Wing


Angel with a broken wing
Take thy pain away.
For this grief I cannot take
For another day.

Someday we will reunite
In Heaven up above.
Until that time I’ll have to live
With the memory of your love.

Emily Sue St. Claire
For Damon and Lance
2008 ©


This is original prose with my copywright.

Kyle Brackett

November 17, 2008

Uncle Lance,

I miss you so much and can't believe that you are actually gone. It saddens me that I didn't get to see you as much as I would have liked to and that I missed the last couple reunions didn't help. I'll never forget the impact that you have made in life and I love you.

Dave Brackett

November 15, 2008

Just wanted you to know how much you meant to me. You were not only a great brother but you were also the finest man I have ever known. I hope everything I believe in comes true and I will see you again someday. Until then I love you and miss you.

Your Brother,
David "Bowl" Brackett

Linda Parmenter

November 11, 2008

Lance, you were a special man that we all loved. I noticed through the years how much children loved you. You were a very special father and each of your boys knew they were loved. Jason, Travis and Ryan are all special young men that will carry on your fine qualities. We will miss you dearly, Linda

Michael as follows;
Uncle lance, You are the founder and builder of such a great family. You are loved and will be greatly missed by all of us. You will live on through your sons and new additions to the Bracketts. I am thankful for the day we spent together at Point Reyes. You are one of the wisest and most clever people that I've ever known.
You are with the lord in heaven. We all love you and will miss you so very much...Michael

Roger Parmenter

November 11, 2008

Lance you were the brother I never had, a friend that warmed my heart and made me laugh. You touched all of our lives in many special ways. You are loved by everyone who knew you and a blessing to us all. Our lives were enriched by your love and sincerity. You will be with me forever.................
God Bless You Brother
Roger

Julie Mattson

November 10, 2008

I am saddened by the loss of such a wonderful man. Uncle Lance, you were so special to me and I loved you so much. I remember so many good memories of times spent with you – the way you always use to tease me and tell me you would show my cheerleading video at my wedding (and then doing just that). I admired you and it meant so much to me when you spoke at Grammy’s celebration – knowing how hard that was for you to get up in front of so many people and say the nice things you said. I will miss you so much! I will never forget you. I wish you didn’t have to go. I love you.

~Julie Bug

Traci Hendricks

November 10, 2008

Uncle Lance you were one of a kind, although we didn't get to spend alot of time together I'll never forget your warm welcome's and big bear hugs when we did see eachother. you raised 3 very respectful boys and should be proud of that. you will forever be in my heart and memory. I love you!

Deb Bucknell

November 10, 2008

Jason, Travis, Ryan and Family,

How lucky we all were to have Lance in our lives. As for me, I kind of knew and admired him through Garrett. He was so proud of his uncle and loved him so much. I didn't get to spend a whole lot of time with Lance, but, I remember the first time I met him, it was like everyone said, he was a big kind hearted bear, instantly you feel his warm , kind soul. I loved the way he took to our kids. I am so sorry that he had to be taken from us so suddenly and so soon. Speaking from experience though, fill your heart with all of the fun loving memories, not the ones that make you sad. I truely believe this is what Uncle Lance would want. Boys, continue making your dad proud.

Love you guys

Nancy Todd

November 10, 2008

My wonderful brother-in-law of 38 years. You will be missed by so many people. I didn't see you often but when I did it was always like we had just seen each other a few days ago. Loved your bear hugs and your laughter. You will always have a special place in my heart. Love ya Lance.

Garrett Bucknell

November 10, 2008

I don't know what to say. Uncle Lance you were very special to me. It seems like God is taking all the good people with him. You are a great man and will be missed. You will always be in my heart.

Pamela Woodard

November 5, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Pam, Clayton and Shannon Woodard.

Sue and Andy McAghon

November 2, 2008

The Brackett Family
Andy and I were were so saddened to hear about Lance. We have fond memories of Lance as a neighbor. Our thoughts are with you.

Jeffrey Friedman

October 26, 2008

To the Brackett family-

Please accept my condolences at the passing of your father. In all our years together, his spirit and generosity was always welcome despite all the delays and problems he faced. It was my pleasure to represent him.

Russell Brackett

October 25, 2008

Uncle Lance,

You were my favorite uncle, my only uncle, but even if I had a thousand uncles you would still be at the top. I didn't get to see you as much as I would have liked but through all the stories my father, your brother Dave has told me, I feet like I know you very well. I remember looking forward to seeing you at the family reunions when I was a kid and up until the last time I saw you. You were always as kind as could be and I will never forget your signature handshake in which you shook my hand so long you were able to find out what I had done everyday in the past 5 years... So thank you Uncle Lance for affecting so many in such a positive way. You will never be forgotten.

- Your nephew Russell Brackett

Alicia Roberts

October 24, 2008

In describing Lance to friends/co-workers in the past few days this is the best way I can: He was the type of parent to one of my close friends, who I would make my way across a crowded room/gym/bleachers to say hi to, because I knew he would open up his arms and greet me with a big smile and sincerely say, "Its nice to see you Alicia". I will never forget his smile on his face and in his eyes. I know he will always be looking down at his family, protecting them with his love and continuing to feel proudness and joy.

Julie Mattson

October 22, 2008

J, Trav, & Ry,
Your Dad was an amazing man, with a loving and kind soul, warm eyes, and the best bear hugs. I loved him so much and will always cherish the times we spent together. He was so proud of all of you. You all did an amazing job honoring him at his memorial service. I am so proud of you three. I love you and sincerely wish you peace during this difficult time.

Julie Bug
www.lancebrackett.blogspot.com

Josie Poppy

October 21, 2008

Deepest sympathies for your loss, our thoughts are with you, Jason. ... T & jp

Maggie Bell

October 19, 2008

Lance was sunshine on any given day. His eyes filled with love, and oh...that smile. What a sweet and kind soul. My condolences. I had the good fortune of knowing Lance from ILM. Travis, Amy and Abigail.........prayers and healing to you. Know that Lance is never far away. Sincerely, Maggie Bell

Dale Palmer

October 19, 2008

On behalf of the Palmer Family, our condolances to the family of Lance. Having grown up with Lance as part of our family, he was like a brother to us. We know he joins his best friend Tommy Palmer who passed away suddenly in August, we hope you are both getting some fishing time in together.
We regret that we are unable to attend Lance's service today. He and his family are in our hearts.
Dale & Irma, Dale and Karen Palmer & Maryann Crumley

Bonnie-Jean San Francisco

October 18, 2008

Dear Lance:
You were such a solid friend to Marie, George and such a sweet man to me. Youv'e been such a support through good times and challenging times, with both wisdom and laughter. It will be so difficult to not have you physically here. But know Lance, you were so part of the lives you touch, your presence, your name, your good heartedness will be embraced each and every day. Thank you Lance for helping me, for showing us all what a fine, caring human being really is. Your spirit will continue to live in our hearts as we sadly think and keep you alive in ours. Love, Bonnie-Jean

Devra Cirimeli

October 18, 2008

I am Lance sister Devra. He meant so much to me, he was what a BIG BROTHER should be. He help me out in trouble times, and it meant more to me than he knew it did. I was to move closer to him, and we talked about it all the time. St. Peter opened the gate wide open for Lance to walk through. I loved him so much and i will miss him alot.

Jim, Karen, Andrew & Jeff Stephens

October 18, 2008

Travis, Amy and Abigail,
You are in our thoughts and our prayers.

kate collins

October 17, 2008

Jason,
I was so glad to talk to you yesterday. Your dad would be so proud. He will be missed, but you will get the chance to honor him by being
strong. Whatever you need, our family is here for you and yours.

Eric & Erin Tillmanns

October 17, 2008

Travis, Amy and Abigail,
We are so sorry for your loss. We send you our love and deepest sympathy.

barbara senhaux

October 17, 2008

To the Wonderful Bracket Boys: Our family's thoughts and prayers are with you and the entire family of Lance ,love to all, you mean so much too us. THE SENHAUX;s

Thomas Smith

October 17, 2008

Lance was good man and fine craftsman. I worked with him on several films at ILM. I am sorry to hear of his passing.

Tom Smith
(Gen. Mannager of ILM 1980 -1986)

Jerry Simonsen

October 17, 2008

My heartfelt condolences to the Brackett family.

I will always remember my eighteen years with Lance at ILM with appreciation, gratitude and humor. Lance was an infinite source of calm in a production maelstrom with advice, carriage and demeanor to solve unique problems and snafus.

My deepest condolences to Jason, Travis and Ryan for your loss.

Jodie Gaich

October 17, 2008

Jason and Family,
Sympathy is very charming, but it doesn't make up for pain and it won't bring your Pops back. Treat everyday as a great gift.
Much Love, Jodes

Steve Gawley and family

October 17, 2008

Amy & I were stunned by the sad news of Lance's sudden passing. For me, Lance was in many ways like a big brother. He was the kind of big brother most everyone would like to call their own,... friendly, many times funny and yet protective. His character of wisdom, pride, thoughtfulness and love will be sorely missed.
It was an honor and a priviledge to have known and worked with him for 25 years in the visual effects production business . Seeing Lance working on our shooting sets brought a certain confidence to me that our practical effects shots would likely be successful in short order. We will remember his unique charm, his smiles and his laughter for years to come.
Our thoughts and prayers go to his three fine sons, Jason, Travis and Ryan and their families.
Sincerely,

jason brackett

October 17, 2008

Pops,
I am so glad we had the great relationship that we did. You were an amazing man. Taught me more than I ever thought possible to learn. I will forever miss your advice, your knowledge, and most of all your sense of humor. Love you more than anything. Your son JASON

Anne Calanchini

October 16, 2008

I knew Lance from ILM. When I think of him, the first thing that comes to mind is his smiing face. He was genuine and kind, and I was so sad to hear of his passing. Your family is in our thoughts & prayers.

Mary Moore-Campagna

October 16, 2008

To all the Brackett family -
Gus and I were shocked and saddened to hear of Lance's passing. He and Gus had taught together in the carpentry apprentice program way back when, and we were delighted to re-connect with him when he fortuitously bought the property next to ours last year. We always enjoyed seeing him and visiting with him - he was a kind, intelligent, thoughtful man with a witty sense of humor; and it was clear from the things he said that he absolutely thought the world of his family. We are glad we got to share his life again for even a brief time, but we were looking forward to having him as a neighbor and will miss hearing all his wonderful stories. Our deepest condolences go out to his family on their loss - you are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Mark Miller

October 16, 2008

It was an honor and a pleasure to have worked with Lance at ILM over the years. He was always quick to help solve a problem, even while eagerly questioning the decisions that created it. It was impossible not to like and respect Lance for his honesty, his straightforwardness and, of course, his laugh. He will be missed.

George and Maria Metlenko

October 16, 2008

Jason, Travis and Ryan,
Our hearts go out to all of you for the loss of this most amazing man we've ever known. His compasion for life, his family and friends was unconditional.
He gave so much to all without asking for anything in return. (except a Dr. Pepper or two)
Our family was truly blessed for knowing Lance, and his memory will live in all of us forever.
Thank you for sharing your dad with our family. He was a gift we'll cherish forever, and can never be replaced.
We loved you Lance with all our hearts and always will.
Our deepest sympathy to all of you.
George and Maria Metlenko
and Family

Emily St. Claire

October 16, 2008

Jason, Travis and Ryan my heart goes out to you. Your dad was my best friend and I can't imagine our lives without him. We talked so often, I can't imagine my life without being able to just pick up the phone and hear his voice. I know Damon came and held him close on his journey from this life. Your dad died just one day before Damon's 30th birthday. I hope they celebrated in grand style. Knowing how I feel, and having lost a son, I know how difficult this time is for the three of you. There is nothing worse than losing the ones you love. Our lives will change but our hearts will hold a special place for him. Lance was a man who should be proud of the life he led, a man with high morals, strong values, and great pride and love for his family. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Adrien Zahorenko

October 16, 2008

I've known Lance since the day I was born, and lived next to him for 20 years. He was one of the most intelligent , patient, kind-hearted person I've ever known. He was a excellent father and help raise 3 amazing boys. My heart goes out to the Brackett family, now and in the days to come. In loving memory of a wonderful person, we will love you and miss you always.

George O. Parmenter

October 16, 2008

We send Love, Sympathy and our understanding to all of the Brackett family and friends.
Lance was always my most favorite son-in-law, like my own son.
Jason, Travis and Ryan, please consider that you have had a super Dad for 35-33-27 years; I lost my Dad at 2 1/2 years.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Brackett Family.

Grandpa George Parmenter & Ruby
[email protected]

Steve Collins

October 16, 2008

Our Love and Prayers To the Brackett family.I will miss Lance and his stories and Laughter and all he
taught Me and all the Dr. Pepper Cans Love Steve& Eileen

Jack Maniscalco

October 16, 2008

To The Brackett Family,

I am so sorry to hear about your dad passing away and at such a young age. Lance was one of the original people I had the pleasure of meeting when I first started at ILM years ago. He had a serious work ethic accompanied by a classic wit and a fantastic laugh, which matched his bigger than life personality. I am very thankful I had the chance to know him and I will always remember his kindness, guidance and loyalty to family and friends.

His face will be missed by many.

Sincerely,

Jackmann

Tony & Stephanie Taubert

October 16, 2008

Lance was a kind soul with a big heart and always a smile to share. We enjoyed many moments on the main and windward stages at ilm. Thank you for such great memories. Our deepest condolences to the family.

Sandy Cannuli-Schading

October 16, 2008

I'm so sad to hear that little Abby Brackett has lost her dear Grandpa Lance. Tears are falling in Geneva, NY for his passing. Surely we will meet him in Heaven. With deepest sympathy.

Paul Hill

October 16, 2008

I was trying to describe Lance to someone who didn't know him. For me, Lance was always that little bit of calm in the sea of chaos that constantly surrounded us during production. I am so thankful to have known him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.

Lisa Lue

October 16, 2008

Jason;
I am very sorry to hear about your dad's passing. May the love and support from your family and friends help you during this difficult time.

Brian and Stacie Andel

October 16, 2008

Lance was a class act through and through. He will be missed by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Brackett family.

Susie Day-Ball

October 16, 2008

My heart was saddened by the news of Lance's passing. What a great loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this very difficult time.

With our deepest sympathy,
Susie & Steve Ball

Lisa Butler

October 16, 2008

My heart goes out to the entire Brackett family. Lance was an amazing man, whose wit and humor was contagious, and whose love for his family was inspiring. We miss you, Lance.

Love,
Lisa (Gallagher) and Tony Butler

Liz Horn

October 16, 2008

We will miss your smile, your cute little laugh, and your compasion. God bless.. my condolences to your family.

Pammy Surface

October 16, 2008

To my wonderful brother. You really were the greatest guy I ever knew. I'll miss our frequent talks and visits and will treasure the great memories I have of you. You really were one in a million and you meant everything to me.

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