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Brian Arent Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Brian Arent
Dennis Turk
January 5, 2015
My condolences to the Arent family. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Brian was a great manager and better friend. I hope the be half the manager he was. Peace out, boss. You will be missed.
Tanya Hurrell
December 23, 2014
I had the pleasure of knowing Brian in Junior & High School, always made folks smile, he was an amazing classmate. My prayers & thoughts are with his Family.
Alma Parham
December 22, 2014
I am another Mississippi friend who also met Brian at Jill's mother's home. When I met him it was as though we had always known each other. He made you feel so special. We all were so happy for Brian and Jill as they seemed so happy together. You knew right off how important his children were to him as he told us all about them. May God bless his family and all those who loved him.
December 21, 2014
I am a Mississippi friend. I met Brian at Jill's Mom's house in Coloma. We had a fun evening and I was so glad that Jill had such a nice man in her life. He did not let any of us Southern Belles get the best of him. Prayers with all.
Mike Marcinkus
December 19, 2014
Brian, you were always a highlight in my visits to the Grand Rapids Office. A great Man to converse with and an inspiration. Our prayers go out to your family during this very difficult time. God Bless.
Darlene Howe
December 18, 2014
I had the privilege of knowing Brian throughout junior high and high school. He had a way of brightening everyone's day. He provided the beat that we all followed in band-when you got lost, you just listened for him...he'll be missed very much...xoxo Dar.
Rob McMillion
December 18, 2014
Brian was the happiest soul I have ever met. My deepest condolences to his family.
Jeff Oppenheimer
December 18, 2014
My heart and prayers goes out to Brian's family and friends. He was such fun to be around and will always be remembered fondly especially some our early produce adventures. I am sure Brian is chuckling right now when he thinks about the whales. Miss you Brian.... let's catch up later....
Pam Ramaker
December 18, 2014
Thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. His smiling face will be missed.
Dan Sloboda
December 18, 2014
One of the funniest guys I've ever known. He will truly be missed.
Aunt Janet Scott-Van De Velde
December 18, 2014
When I think of you Brian...what I will always remember the most is you WONDERFUL SENSE OF HUMOR....your SMILE was God's special gift to you....all of your friends and family in heaven will be so happy to see you again....I have a strong feeling your jokes about your time with all of us will bring many laughs...I've always thought you were always the very special gifted family member we have had. YOU will be so MISSED....by Traci, your three children and of course your Mom, too. You will always have a special place in my heart.
Annie Evans
December 18, 2014
Brian the Great..we didn't share an office but when we spoke it seemed like we seen each other everyday. We accepted and embraced each others quirkiness, ha ha. My heart is heavy.....your contagious smile will be missed, the joy you had for life will be remembered, and Brian "you" made ME smile. My deepest deepest condolences to Parker, Noah, Brianna, Traci, Jill and family.
Chauncey Black
December 18, 2014
What an amazing TALENT,what an amazing GIFT one of the few good guys.May GOD bless your children, and family.
Keena Johnson
December 18, 2014
I'm blessed to have called Brian my friend. His presence was always felt the second he walked into the room. His bright smile & sparkle in his eyes would shine the brightest when he talked about his 3 beautiful kid. His hugs, laugh & zest for life will surely be missed. My heartfelt condolences to his family. He will forever be in our hearts.
Joey Braden
December 17, 2014
My dear friend, Brian, you had a bigger than life personality, heart, and spirit. Maybe that is why God wanted you to come with Him so badly. You always said you were meant to do more than you were doing here. You were right. The amount of people's lives you have touched here on Earth will greatly pale in comparison to the amount you will touch while you are in Heaven. We all kept praying for a miracle. It took me a while to realize...we already had that miracle. That miracle was knowing you and having you as a part of our lives. I will miss you so much, but will never forget all you have taught me about faith, hope, loving people and loving life. Rest in peace my sweet friend. Heaven just got so much brighter. I will love you forever!
December 17, 2014
What an amazing young man ... so many wonderful friends and memories he has left behind ... how unfortunate that I never got to know him better.
Joel
Mike Craig
December 17, 2014
I only met Brian a few times thru my daughter,Christi and he was very pleasant to be around. I know he will be sorely missed.
May the Lord bless him and keep him.
Mike Craig
BB
December 17, 2014
It's cool to see that many G.R. people got a clue about what Brain was all about, not surprising. We did the high school thing together and a little bit of the college deal, FSU. I am in tears right now with this news. The funny stories we could tell. Man, what a loss, way too soon. Brian totally loved his kids, he would tell me all about them, they were absolutely the love of his life. That's Brian.
Roger Hirt
December 17, 2014
Joann, Shirley and I were deeply saddened when we heard from Joe about your wonderful son Brian's passing. We are in Vegas so we sent our love and prayers to you and would otherwise be there. We are thinking of you constantly at this time. Love Roger and Shirley Hirt
Dave Phillips
December 17, 2014
His friends will surely miss him. I remember the high school days playing sports together. He was always encouraging others.
Krystal Garbarino
December 17, 2014
Brian, I remember when I first met you at Ferris when I was visiting one of my best friends in the whole world "Traci LeMaster Arent" the lovely mother of your children - You had on a white tank top and had the most beautiful smile. Throughout the years you ALWAYS made people laugh and were so very giving of yourself. You will be greatly missed. My heartfelt prayers go out to my dearest friend Traci and her children. xoxo
Darrin, Pam and Alan Draves
December 17, 2014
Brian was there for me as I lost my son last December and even a month ago I got a card wishing me well. We were miles apart but I felt very close. He was one of the Good Guys and he will be missed
Sheri & Paul Whitten
December 17, 2014
We are so very sorry for your loss Traci! I didn't get to see Brian much since we moved to the new building, but I remember how he was always so friendly and I still smile when I remember watching that spoof of "The Apprentice" he made with his team. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this difficult time.
Ken Arnold
December 17, 2014
Brian certainly has "outlived his life". The energy and unique perspective he brought to Sales & Marketing meetings is still talked about years later. I am truly blessed to have known him. He always showed a genuine interest and care for others.
Bev Reitz Rittmeyer
December 17, 2014
Jo...I was so sorry to hear about Brian. My heart goes out to you with all the sadness you have endeared throughout your life time. My heart is with you. I know your sisters are there for you.
Johnny Dorsey
December 17, 2014
My friend you will be missed. To the family I pray that you find comfort in the Lords word" you must be absent from the body to be in the presents of GOD" . May GOD bless you all in these hard times.
Tammi Shamp Provine
December 17, 2014
I am so very sorry to hear about Brian. I will always remember him fondly for bringing life and laughter into a room. His big smile was infectious to those around him. My heart felt thoughts and prayers go out to his Mother, children and the entire Arent family.
Heather Schanski
December 17, 2014
As Noah's teacher I got to know him. He loved his son. I'm thinking of all of you with love. Heather Schanski
Johanna Kelly
December 17, 2014
Brian, you will be greatly missed by all. You were a great father by not missing one event in your children's lives. God be with you and I already know you are with him. We Love you.
Your Aunt Cookie & Uncle Frank
Robin Eckman
December 17, 2014
Brian, you will be forever missed! But I'm sure your making my mother smile from ear to ear! I love you! Your sister Inlaw. Peace be with you!??
Chris & Sally McDonald
December 17, 2014
Our hearts are broken as we lost a great friend. Brian was one of a kind. He was the kind of friend that you couldn't get enough of. He had you laughing for hours with his quick wit and endless humor. He never hid the love he had for his friends and family. If he loved you, you knew it! The many memories we have shared through the years will continue to keep us smiling as we think of him and how lucky we were to call him our FRIEND. We are going to miss you <3 Love you Brian!!
Dan Dahir
December 17, 2014
The world is a little less funny without Brian in it. He was an inspiration to me with his ability to laugh and have fun while still being very successful. I'm going to miss him. My thoughts are with all of those who were close to him.
December 17, 2014
Mr. Arent
Thanks for raising such an amazing young man in Noah.
The Forest Hills Central Hockey Team/Family
Cari Hartman
December 17, 2014
Brian-You were one of the most amazing people I've had opportunity to cross paths with. You were the light of our office. You made everyone smile and laugh until we couldn't laugh any longer. I'll never forget when your hair came back after your cancer and your walking around the office telling us all to "feel it, it's so soft" I'm so grateful for the time I had working with you and getting to know you. You'll never be forgotten my friend. Have fun in heaven. I look forward to the day that I will hear your infectious laugh again!
Tom Collard
December 17, 2014
Brian I will miss you buddy, but will always keep you close to my heart. Love you Tom
Lisa Lyons
December 17, 2014
Brian we will miss you so much. Our hearts are broken at this time but we know all the smiles and hugs you have given us in the past will make it a little easier to mend. Your Mom and children as well as all your family are in our prayers. Love you so much, Aunt Lisa and Uncle Al
Tom Collard
December 17, 2014
Brian I will miss you buddy .....till we meet again I will hold you close to my heart.....love ya
December 17, 2014
Although this is a time to celebrate the life of this dynamic individual, I can't help but feel a deep sense of loss at this passing. His energy, commitment and laughter will be missed. I take solace in the fact that Brian is sitting with our Lord announcing the newest members to heaven.
Dave Dow (Ada, Mi)
Jack Cottrell
December 17, 2014
I had the pleasure of coaching Brian's son Noah for many years. Brian was our chief Cheer Leader !!! He would come in to the locker room to fire up the boys before every big game. He loved his children and loved life and will be missed. God bless all of his children and family. Many prayers for Brian and the Arent family. Jack Cottrell and Cottrell family (especially my son Noah who loved Brian's emotive energy)
Sheri Ward-Proulx
December 17, 2014
So many memories shared by so many people of Brian's energy and magnetic personality. He will be truly missed. Rest in peace, my friend.
Cheryl Diballa
December 17, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of great sorrow. My memories of Brian fill me warmth and laughter. I will miss him.
Rob Ritter
December 17, 2014
Brian - Thanks for all the great memories and laughs in working together all these years. I know you now have a great audience in heaven and look forward to the day I will see you again.
Erin Carson
December 17, 2014
My prayers are for Brian's Mother, children, and family. May they feel the love of our Heavenly Father and His arms around them. My deepest sympathy is for all of you.
Dan Goeglein
December 17, 2014
Brian, I will miss your perspective, excitement and friendship. God now has a great friend that has moved in with him. I look forward to seeing you again.
Lisa Hazen
December 17, 2014
Prayers for you and your family during this difficult time. You are one of a kind Brian Arent, one of a kind! RIP.
Tim and Debi Craig
December 17, 2014
Brian, for the short amount of time that we were friends I knew you were someone special . You gave us hope when we couldn't see it. You gave us laughter when all we wanted to do was cry. But most of all you gave us your open arms and contagious smile. You will be deeply missed my forever soul brother!
Lisa Brunke
December 17, 2014
I'm left with a bittersweet feeling, Brian. Sad that you left us, but rejoicing with you as you have received your eternal gift. How awesome must your Christmas celebration be this year, as you give thanks to your Savior for his willing birth so that you could be with Him forever, and standing right next to your sis and dad on top of it all. Love you, cousin! Thanks for all the humorous memories you gave us.
Ed Dian
December 17, 2014
Brian you will be missed my friend.
Thank you for the laughter and memories.
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this sad most difficult time.
Chuck and Candy Vacanti
December 17, 2014
You are going to be greatly missed my friend. Peace be with you in the hands of the lord.
Timothy Kratz
December 17, 2014
Thank you BA for the laughs and always taking time to give me a call to check on myself and the team. You will truly be missed. Peace be with you and your family.
Paul Dilcher
December 17, 2014
Glad our paths crossed way back when in southwestern Michigan. Thrilled to have been told that you had come to know Jesus as your Saviour! Regret that Karin and I will be unable to be present as your life and resurrection is celebrated in Grand Rapids. See you again someday soon alongside Jesus and our true band of brothers and sisters Brian. Your smile & laugh were always uplifting and contagious.
Mike and Darcey Nawrocki
December 17, 2014
Our hearts and prayers are with your family Brian. The world will miss your smile, your incredible faith and the care and kindness you gave freely to everyone you met. We will never forget you. Thank you for your friendship.
Jeff Ulrich
December 17, 2014
You will be grealtly missed and remembered Brian. My thoughts and prayers go out to Brian's family.
Tim and Cherri Lockwood
December 16, 2014
Gods speed my Friend.You will be missed by many. Your ability to capture the audience at everything you did brought joy to all that knew you and those that didn't wondering who was that guy?? He is crazy funny. To the Family,
God Bless, and our condolences
Terri Sorg
December 16, 2014
You will forever be in our thoughts. Rest in peace.
Jim Thomas
December 16, 2014
Brian was one of those people you meet and never forget. I had not talked to Brian for years and out of the blue just a few months ago he called. He had heard that I was dealing with cancer. He was concerned and we shared our stories with one another. He was so on Fire about Faith and Jesus Christ. He was amazing in his conversation, so Positive on life and how important a Relationship with Christ is. We laughed and we ended our conversation of 2 1/2 hours with prayer with Brian leading. ThankYou Brian....See You Soon.
Jim Thomas GFS 1989-1997
James & Cori Mitchell
December 16, 2014
Brian, you are loved much, and you will be missed. We look forward to seeing you in eternity, dear brother.
Missy and Troy Marckini
December 16, 2014
Words can not express our deep sadness. We are so greatful to know Brian and always loved the way could make an entire room burst with laughter. In being his co-worker for 25+ years he was also one of our
our best friends-- We cried together, laughed together and prayed together. I will miss him.
Josh Sale
December 16, 2014
No annual meeting will ever have a host like Brian Arent!!!!
Evan Jones
December 16, 2014
Praise to God for His mercy and grace that has called you home for an eternal celebration. What a glorious day when you run into the arms of Jesus. We will miss you dearly but know that you have run the race and received your crown!
John Lemke
December 16, 2014
Had lots of fun during the years Chad and Noah played together at Michigan Nationals together! You will be sadly missed Brian! A loud voice in the stands that was ALWAYS positive! Keep cheering from above until we see you again! The Lemke's
Clint Judd
December 16, 2014
Brian, you made me smile and laugh from the very first time I met you when I was a sales associate at GFS. Your energy and positive outlook on every situation was contagious. You will be missed. Rest in peace.
Val and Mike Chumney
December 16, 2014
Remembering a life well-lived, my dear friend. Offering many thanks and much gratitude for sharing your wonderful shining light with us on earth. We can be assured you are brightening the halls of heaven with that wonderful laugh and infinite charm. We will cherish the memories forever in our hearts. Our deepest sympathies to the family.
Fred Hedin
December 16, 2014
BA....Love you. God's Speed.
Chuck Huckaba
December 16, 2014
I was very sad to hear Brian had passed away. My last conversation with Brian was this past October, and he was filled with so much joy in spite of his battle with cancer. He was a changed man, and he gave all the glory to Christ. We never had a conversation where he didn't talk about his family, and how much he loved them. Brian could light up a room, and keep us all in stitches for hours! Now he's doing it in heaven. I'll miss you Briian.
Diane Sonefeld
December 16, 2014
So shocked and saddened at the loss of my cousin. He will always be remembered for his gregarious personality and his endless support for the Chicago Bears. Prayers go out to his children and Aunt Joann. May God be with you all.
Christi Steffens
December 16, 2014
Brian, you are the best man I know and have changed my life forever! I will celebrate you every day of my life, pay it forward and laugh every day! I love you, my dear friend! You left quite a legacy in this world and touched so many people ! Til we meet again with our Heavenly Father.... Christi Steffens
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