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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.
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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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