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Brian Kobata Obituary

Two men collapsed on the ice while playing recreational hockey at Sharks Ice in San Jose and died within hours of each other on Sunday night. Brian Kobata, 38, of Morgan Hill was playing with his team, Mug Shots, and had just scored a goal against the A Team, when he grimaced and fell down, Kobata's wife, Heidi, said. Two teammates tried to save Kobata by giving him CPR and using a defibrillator, a San Jose Fire Department spokesman said. Paramedics were called at 9:06 p.m. and he was taken to a hospital.

Published by Mercury News from Feb. 24 to Mar. 1, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Brian Kobata

107 Entries

From our home to yours-

Annie-Dear Chappell

May 12, 2009

Dearest Heidi,

There has never been a day that I have not thought of you and your happiness, although we have not spoken in years. My heart aches for you, my eyes cry for you and always know I love you. Always.

Annie-Dear Chappell, McMinnville, OR

March 24, 2009

Heidi, Mr. and Mrs. Kobata, Steve,

Having received news of Brian's passing from Heidi recently, I and my wife, Jackie, are in shock and are deeply saddened by the news. Bri was one of my closest friends...a true friend. As roommates with Derek and me at Cal Poly, his calm demeanor, easy smile and his overall nature of being true and supporting to those closest to him maintained a level of order and fun in the controlled chaos of college life. A true friend, he stood as a best man at my wedding. He and Heidi left a huge impact on both Jackie's and my life by making the long trip to Arizona to be a part of our special day. A later trip to Florida to visit us and help christen our "new" house amidst all the alligators and giant spiders--Bri's "favorite" creature on earth--again showed the deepth of his friendship. Bri possesed some of the most honorable traits--traits many strive to aquire and adhere to all their lives but are lucky if they attain just one or two: honesty, integrity, perserverance, trueness of character. Mr. and Mrs. Kobata, Steve, Heidi: again, my deepest condolences. Please know that Jackie and my thoughts are with you always.

To my true and great friend, Bri: you are missed, my friend.

Larry Markle

Carol Crane

March 8, 2009

Dear Heidi and other Kobata family members,
I was Brian's teacher for advanced Spanish at Prospect High School. I still remember his nice handwriting and carefully done assignments. I can still picture him listening to me attentively from his seat in the classroom. I still remember the Spanish name he chose for himself, "Esteban." I knew that with his diligence and respectful attitude, he would do well in life. I am truly sorry for his loss at such a young age. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Best regards,
Carol "Sra." Crane

Liz Ronco

March 8, 2009

Heidi and Family, I was sad to hear about Brian, he was a great person. I cut his hair a few years. Like someone else mentioned, when he would ask "how are you and your family" he really wanted to know. He was a genuinely nice person. I am so sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you now and always.

David Soto and Family

March 3, 2009

Heidi and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. My deepest sympathy and condolences to you.

Debi Pressley

March 3, 2009

Heidi and Min,
I don't know if you remember me, but I was the goalie for the 3-on-3 league team way back when. We had the best tailgate parties! Brian was one of the best people I have ever met. I was shocked and saddened to hear of Brian's sudden passing. Words cannot convey my empathy; my heart aches for all of you. I will keep you in my prayers.

Betsy Gaudin

March 2, 2009

Dear Heidi and Family,

Brian was one of the most genuine people I have ever met. When he would ask "How are you" he really wanted to know, he wasn't just asking to make small talk. I feel very fortunate to have worked with Brian at Anritsu. He will be deeply missed, but surely never forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Scott Kendall

March 2, 2009

Heidi, Brian's family, and all who know they have lost something special and dear to them; my heart hurts when I think about the loss of this great human being, husband, and wonderful friend. Brian was very close to my small family. So generous when he didn't need to be. He has been there for my mother countless times while never making her feel as if she was a bother. I think back to my seasons of playing hockey with Brian, our countless drives up to San Jose, just the two of us. Those are precious memories I will always hold on to. He was an unbelievable friend to me in a time of my life in which I really needed a good friend like him. Despite the gap in our ages we got along great; I attribute it to his magnetic and fair personality. I will miss those times, and I will miss Brian. I know my mother respected him and everything he did for us and is missing working side by side with him every day. He was so very generous to me, I wish I would have had the chance to repay him back. I feel he was the type of person that would do anything for anyone. I have the utmost respect for Heidi as well, and a true respect for the journey she will have to endure without Brian. If there is anything I can ever do for you Heidi, or your new bundle of joy, let me know. Brian will never be forgotten.

Charles Yeh

March 2, 2009

Dearest Heidi and Kobata Family,
I am very sorry and also so very shocked after hearing about Brian. My deepest sympathy and condolences to you all.

Karin Vonderach

March 1, 2009

Kelly Ann – It’s tragic that you never got a chance to meet your dad. He touched many lives in wonderful ways. There are very few people I have ever met who were as universally cheerful as your dad was. I can honestly say I never saw him when he wasn’t smiling and I never heard him say an unkind word about anyone. He was excited about your arrival and very much loved you, your mom, and hockey. He was a good friend to many of the people he worked with. He will be missed.

dean white

March 1, 2009

This has hit home hard in the oldtimers league at logitech and we are all devastated despite barely, if at all knowing him. The sense of brotherhood among hockeyplayers is underemphasized and misunderstood, and we feel for he and his family dearly.

John Adams

February 28, 2009

I used to play hockey with Brian, and was saddened to hear of his passing. He was always a joy to be around. My heart and prayers go out to his family.

Toni Cazares

February 28, 2009

Dearest Heidi and Kobata Family,

My deepest sympathy and condolences to you all. I am very sorry and also so very shocked after hearing the news of the loss of Brian Kobata. I am thinking and praying for you all during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Billy Ramirez

February 26, 2009

I've never met Mr. Kobata but his passing is being felt through the close Bay Area hockey community. On behalf of the DDD Fighting Amish, please accept my kindest thoughts. My heart goes out to all of his friends and family.

Sincerely,
Billy Ramirez
(Goalie, Fighting Amish)

Ana-Maria Aney

February 26, 2009

Dear Heidi, Mr. & Mrs. Kobata, Steve, and Dearest Little Baby Kobata,
The ever-present smile with which Brian made us feel that we were the only ones in the room, the apartment he shared with Derek in SLO, the graduation from Cal Poly, our first camping trip together at Big Sur which moved to your home in SJ thanks to wild fires, the evening spent playing pool in SJ instead of by the camp fire, our wonderful brunch together, our wedding in LA, his enthusiasm about Lucas learning to skate and to play hockey, his games with Derek whenever he came back to SF or SJ, are just a few of the things that make us feel honored and privileged to have been Brian's friends. He did everything he liked with love, and he loved doing everything he liked with a smile on his face. With Heidi next to him, Brian's world was a magical journey and we've loved every moment of it shared with the two of you. Heidi, the journey continues and Derek and I are right next to you (East Coast, West Coast are only a stone throw away) always, to welcome both you and Brian's little girl, and to give Lucas and Audrey a chance to make sure that hockey stays in both our families despite the distance between us, age, the gender (Audrey will be sure to point that out to anyone who doubts it), or the will to do it for that matter.
Mr. & Mrs. Kobata, Steve, I am at a loss for words, for Heidi's phone call this afternoon has found us unable to understand it all, but we wish to send you our love, our prayers and a warm hug. I know that in his warm and modest heart Brian only now sees how many people he touched, and that he looks down to you all... with a smile, and probably even saying "I scored!". He would probably want us to never forget it.
And dear Baby Girl, we cannot wait for you to join us, so that we can tell you all kinds of stories about your dad - Derek may have some from your dad's college days that no one else may have heard them yet. I hope you'll be a good listener, and we cannot wait to meet you (all in due time).
Our hearts are aching for all of you, our soul is full of sorrow, and our thoughts are right next to all of you, through these difficult times. We will miss Brian terribly and we will keep on loving him.

Kevin Jiang

February 26, 2009

Dear Heidi;
I am very sorry for your loss,I know Brian from playing the same team with him a few years ago (Skating hell fish). He is a really good person, I wish I get to know him more.
Kevin J

Jackie Yoo

February 26, 2009

Hello Heidi (ex-boss),

I was deeply saddened to hear the news about the loss of your husband, Brian. Please know that my thoughts & prayers are with you at this difficult time. My condolences.

Jackie Yoo

February 26, 2009

Hello Heidi (ex-boss),

I was deeply saddened to hear the news about the loss of your husband, Brian. Please know that my thoughts & prayers are with you at this difficult time. My codolences.

Scott Miller

February 26, 2009

Dear Heidi,
I was stunned and deeply saddened to hear the news about the loss of your husband, Brian. The report of his death took away my breath and my heart sunk further when I learned that you are expecting your first child later this year. Please know that my thoughts are with you and my heart goes out to you and your family at this difficult time.
My condolences,

Susie Colombo-Sadeghi

February 26, 2009

Heidi and family,

I am so sorry for your loss. I haven't spoken to Brian for a long time but I have fond memories of him. He has a kind and gentle soul that will live on in all of us. He will be missed. My heart goes out to you and your family.

Susie

Beth Russell-Fine

February 26, 2009

Mr.& Mrs. Kobata, Steve and Family,
I lived next door to you on Wood Dell Ct. where my parent's still live. I went to high school and graduated with Brian at Prospect. I was so saddened to hear the news about what happened. I can honestly say that I know "exactly" what you are all going through right now. My family has been going through a similiar experience of losing my brother unexpectedly only 4 months ago. My heart goes out to all of you during this horribly difficult time. May you find comfort in all the wonderful memories you had with Brian. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Manmeet Wirk

February 26, 2009

Heidi,
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief.

The Gussmans

February 26, 2009

Our prayers to Heidi and all who have been so fortunate to know Brian. We will miss him as our neighbor.

Alicia Rodriguez Thompson

February 26, 2009

Kobata Family,
I'm sorry for your loss, this came as a shock to me since Brian was my first love and I will always cherish our memories together.
I wish you all the best Heidi.

Mickey Colombo

February 26, 2009

Heidi,

I'm not sure if you remember me...but I have known Brian for about 18 years. We played hockey many times together and he was always a joy to be around. I am in shock that he was one of the players I heard about this past week. I haven't talked to Brian in a while...life gets to be that way sometimes. I am so sorry for the loss.

The Emfingers

February 26, 2009

Kobatas~ We are so saddened by the news about Brian. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Brian's short life was with a wonderful family.
Love, Terry, Diane, Brad & Shelby

Patti Childress

February 26, 2009

Heidi,

Brian was in my sister's class of '89 at Prospect HS and I was 2 years behind. When she called me to tell me about Brian, I was saddened because he's the only person from my sister's class that I can remember who ALWAYS had a smile. You just knew he was a nice guy.

You and your baby are in my prayers.

Sharon (Ritchie) Kennedy

February 26, 2009

Dear Kobata Family
I am truely sorry for your loss. My brother, Brian Ritchie and I went to school with Brian (Mid School, HS and my brother recently learned SLO too). My husband plays hockey at the SJ ice too and I was very shocked to hear about the 2 incidents that occured last Sunday.

Heidi, I am sure it was comforting for Brian to know that you were there at the rink, by his side. He will always live through your unborn child and I hope the rest of your pregnancy goes well especially during these sad times.
My heart and thoughts go out to the entire family.

Michael Griffiths

February 26, 2009

The Kobata Family

I'm very sorry for the loss of Brian. He was truly a great person. It was a privilege and honor to call him a teammate and friend. Brian was a great comfort while my Dad was sick. And for that I will always be grateful. My thoughts and prayers go out to you at this difficult time.

Eva V

February 26, 2009

Heidi,

My prayers are with you and your family. Please try and be strong.

I do not know you guys but I am a hockey fan too.

Zachary Maragoudakis

February 25, 2009

Heidi,

Even though I didn't know Brian personally, I can sense from all the kind notes here that he was a wonderful person. As a fellow hockey player at Sharks Ice in San Jose, we are all connected in spirit, and his legacy will live on.

Dave Inouye

February 25, 2009

Heidi,
I coach Ryan's Quakes Hockey team and I had just recently been introduced to you and Brian at a tournament. I'm sure Brian loved watching Ryan and Emily play the sport he loved, he will be missed in the stands. The entire Quakes organzation sends out our deepest condolences.

Dung Nguyen

February 25, 2009

Hi Heidi,

I am so sorry about your loss. I pray that you will get through this difficult time.

Dung Nguyen, Flextronics

Matt Agresta

February 25, 2009

Brian was a true gentleman, a gentle soul, and a giving person. The world would be much better if we all took Brian’s approach to life: Give more than you take and value your friendships and family above all else.

Brian, we miss you, and will treasure your memory in our hearts. May God bless you and your loving family.

Phil Bowers

February 25, 2009

Heidi, I knew Brian from Anritsu and playing roller hockey. He was the kind of person you instantly like and enjoy being around. He will be missed by us all.

jim smith

February 25, 2009

i believe that God has called him home, and he is in the presence of his Lord. a wonderful thing to think of. i also bless his family with the peace of the Lord and the support they need. bless one and all

Lisa Meyers

February 25, 2009

Dear Heidi and Family,

As a family, we would like to extend our deepest condolences to you as you face this most difficult time. After reading all the many wonderful comments about Brian, one can only imagine what a wonderful person he must've been. As a mother-to-be, this must be especially difficult, and we hope that as you hold that precious new baby for the first time, you'll know that Brian still lives on through your child, and therefore, he'll be with you always. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all.

Sincerely,

The Meyers Family

Bobbie DeBoe Chavarria

February 25, 2009

Heidi,
It's difficult to put certain things into words. They can not express the shock, disbelief and sorrow that I feel. We have know each other an incredibly long long long time. I want you to know that I am here no matter what the hour of the day for you and Kelly Ann. We have grown through alot together, and I am here to be your shoulder, your ear, your friend. I love ya girl... Brian will be missed by more than you know, his impact on this world will be carried on by memories and stories. Some that you helped create and some that you will hear for the first time and laugh and smile, cause you know that was the kind of guy he was. He will always be besides you, he will be with you everytime you look at Kelly Ann and it will make you smile.. May your memories bring you peace and fill your heart with joy. I look forward to hearing all those stories about Brian that I do not know, from you, his parents, friends and family. Here's to cherishing his memory and his foot print here...
Love you,

Lorraine Walston

February 25, 2009

Heidi,

I'm very sorry for your loss. I am part of the San Jose Sharks Ice hockey family, and one of the people Brian played against. We are all going to miss Brian very much. May the thoughts and prayers of all of us ease your pain - even if just for a moment.

Lorraine Walston
Founder, Valenti Rebels Hockey Teams

Brian Nichols

February 25, 2009

Words cannot even begin to express my sorrow. I play in the same division as Brian and I am sure we have met on the ice. Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, just know that you are very close in every thought and prayer.
The Family and Teammates of Brian are in our prayers.

Vivian Poehlman-Hsieh

February 25, 2009

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Terri Aguiar

February 25, 2009

Heidi,
We just got to know you and Brian this year as you came to watch our Quakes Roller Hockey Team. My son Austin is on the team with your nephew Ryan. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I was just floored when I read the newspaper and realized it was your husband Brian. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Brian's family.

Sheilah Estoesta

February 25, 2009

Heidi,
I am so sorry for your loss. I did not meet Brian personally, but I play in the same division and I'm sure we've seen each other on the ice. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Deborah Morton-Padilla

February 25, 2009

Heidi,
Brian and I worked together at Anritsu and he was a great co-worker. Very kind and always very helpful. One of the special people at work. My deepest condolences to you and your family. Take good care of yourself and the baby.

Linnea Montgomery

February 25, 2009

Heidi,
I am sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers go out for you and your family.

Rob Neimeyer

February 25, 2009

Brian was a great competitor and teammate. He will be missed. My prayers are with you.

Bob Mclaughlin

February 25, 2009

Sorry for you loss and your families loss.

Fellow hockey player

Erin Vonderach

February 25, 2009

Brian was an incredibly kind and giving man, and I was lucky to get the chance to know him. I know his presence will be sorely missed in my family and my thoughts and prayers go out to his.

Pattie & Dave Gussman

February 25, 2009

Heidi, are thoughts & prayers are with you during this difficult time. We are truly sorry for you loss. Please feel free to call upon us anytime.

Veronica Ortiz

February 25, 2009

My prayers are with you and your family, in times like this there is no words. I did not know Brian, but I know how happy he was wither daughter in the way. God bless you and your baby girl.

Liana (Reda) Leahy

February 25, 2009

Heidi,
I am also expecting a child (in April) and I especially regret your loss. In Jr High I was one of those people that got teased a lot, but Brian was always kind. You are in my prayers.

Rosie Johnson

February 25, 2009

Heidi, I am so sorry for your loss. Brian was a wonderful man and caring soul. He brought such joy to all who had the priviledge to know him. Brian was always a great friend to my brother and his family. Whenever we would meet he would always make me feel as if I was his friend too. I have one of his old sharks practice jerseys , I will always treasure it and the memory of a wonderful man. (Charlie Saporito's sister)

madeline wheeler

February 25, 2009

Heidi,

We are so sorry for you loss and your families loss. Brian always so pleasant driving up in your driveway on his motorcycle going out of his way to say hi. We are right next door and will be here for you.

Madeline and Flex Wheeler

Mary K. Pierce

February 25, 2009

Heidi, I am so sorry for your loss.You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Don Dobrzynski

February 25, 2009

Heidi my prayer are with you and your family, I am sure he was a great guy.

Lisa Aragon

February 25, 2009

Heidi and Brian's family - I am so sorry for your pain and grief. I started every day at Anritsu with a warm hello from Brian. He was so patient and put up with my yacking all day (we sat next to each other). I will always remember the hike we all (Heidi, Brian, John and I) took up El Toro mountain! Please know Brian will be missed at Anritsu - he had so many wonderful friends. Many hearts are broken by this tragedy. And, so many available to help you as needed.

Rubinder

February 24, 2009

Heidi,

I was shocked to learn the news about Brian he seemed to be a very great guy. All the notes from his friends , peers and loved one are testimonial of his greatness. My prayers will be always with you. The whole day I was thinking about the moment when you shared the news about your baby, and I pray to god to give you strength so that you can take good care of yourself and prepare for her arrival. If you need any help I am just a phone call away.

Jenn McGeachy

February 24, 2009

Brian was the nicest guy anyone could ask to work with. I will remember our emails and chats about hockey... I don't think we ever spoke of anything else... He will be greatly missed. His family will be in my thoughts.

Greg Cruz

February 24, 2009

Heidi,
I was on the Mug Shots with Brian and had the pleasure of playing on his line many times. I am sure I don't need to tell you this, but he was a great team member and a selfless line mate. My heart weighs heavy for you and your family. I am terribly sorry for your loss.

Annette Lind

February 24, 2009

Heidi,Uncle Min, Auntie Sue,Steve,
I am so sorry for your loss. But I do know he's with my Dad...(Uncle Tosh). Love and prayers. Cousin Michi and Family

Emily & Ryan

February 24, 2009

Dear Auntie Heidi,

We will miss Uncle Brian a lot. We loved having him come to our hockey games. We will always remember the good times we had with him especially when he came over to play games. We loved him very much.

Carole Lee

February 24, 2009

I had the pleasure to work with Brian at
Wells Fargo many years ago. He was one of those people who had the ability to connect with "anyone". He was always respectful to all and was always there for any one who needed a hug or smile or just needed to talk. Heidi, please accept my condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with.

Larry Schenkman

February 24, 2009

Heidi,
We are so sorry for your loss, our deepest sympathy goes to you, your family, and brians family.
I was just talking to him over the weekend and he was saying how you were showing and he was anxiously waiting for his daughters arrival and I told him it will pass in the blink of an eye.
I remember going to the sharks games with him, like it was yesterday.
If there is anything me or sheryl can do for you, we will.

Lance and Paula Bassett

February 24, 2009

Heidi,

Brian was such a great person, and I am grateful that I had a chance to know him and work with him at Anritsu. He was so willing to help others with work and give free advice on electronics (his specialty!). Brian was a giving person and always nice to others.

We will keep praying for you and wish you a bright future.

Pam Paulsen

February 24, 2009

Heidi,
I know we haven't spoken in years, but you have come to my mind in the past couple of weeks and I have wondered how to get in touch with you. I am stunned and so sad to hear of the loss of your beloved husband. After reading many of the comments here, i can belive he was a very kind man. Eric and I will be lifting you and your baby girl up in prayer in these coming days, weeks and months. I would love to talk in person if you would like to. You can reach me at pamatpaulsenfamilydotcom.
Much love,

Trisha Ruiz

February 24, 2009

Heidi,
I was truly saddened when I went into work this morning and found out about Brian. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

J Dibble

February 24, 2009

Heidi and Baby,

Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. I had the pleasure of being on the ice with Brian several times. You are in our prayers.

Ken Edwards

February 24, 2009

Heidi,
As captain of the MugShots, it was a true pleasure to call Brian a teammate and most of all a friend. I admired the spirit and passion that he brought to each game and his positive effect on all of us. He will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your entire family.

Matt Shirts

February 24, 2009

Heidi,

As former Sharks Ice player and one who has seen 2 friends and team mates pass on the ice, my deepest sympathies on your loss. I did not know your husband but our thoughts and prayers are with you none the less.

May you find peace in his passing, and joy and happiness in the life that was created with the love so many here that knew him have testified of.

Sincerely,

Matt

February 24, 2009

My thoughts and prayers go out to Brian, his family, and his friends. As a fellow Sharks Ice player, this suddem loss really hits home. You will be in my prayers.

Lupe Garcia

February 24, 2009

As a Sharks fan, and a lover of the Game of Hockey, it is always sad when the game loses a player. thought i did not know him, my thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.

Sandra Childress

February 24, 2009

Heidi,

When I learned through my Referee connections about the double tragedy on Sunday, I was worried I would know at least one of them. I had been a scorekeeper at SJIce for several years before moving to San Diego in 2000, and continued to "commute" for tournaments for a few more years.

When I woke to see the link to Brian's name...I was floored. He was a part of my Prospect class of '89 that I had not found for the reunion this year. This was not how I wanted to find him.

Happy memories of your husband being a fun-loving guy came flooding back: mostly around football at Prospect. Our Senior year, I took the photos from the sidelines at most of the games. One time, I was using a telephoto lens and didn't realize how close he was running the sideline...and barely stepped out of the way as he came crashing through it. I know I have the negatives in storage...and will get them out for the reunion.

Tessie General

February 24, 2009

Heidi is my Manager at Flextronics and i am currently out of the country on vacation. How I was shocked to learn of this last night from my colleagues. This is such a sad, sad part of a very nice and ideal relationship. Brian, I never met you, but I always have heard so much from your wife about you and they were always always happy, happy incidences..I can feel deep sympathy for Heidi, who's always been so excited with you about the coming of your daughter in June. To his parents, Heidi, and her family; my prayers are with you from the Philippines.

Diana Williams

February 24, 2009

Brian was one of the good ones. Always a smile and hello. He was truly a wonderful loving man, and so excited to be a Dad. The love he felt for you Heidi was amazing, I hope that gives you strength through this very hard time.

Sara Carlson Tavernise

February 24, 2009

Brian and I grew up together -- same schools, same classes, straight through. He was one of those constants of my childhood, reliable as the air and foothills around this valley. I haven't seen him in years, but I was so looking forward to seeing him again at our 20 year reunion... What a tragedy. As a wife and mother, I can only imagine what those left behind may be experiencing. Please, if there is anything at all to do, don't hesitate to ask. You all are in my thoughts.

Christine Damian

February 24, 2009

Anritsu will not be the same without Brian.
He was a good friend to many and his spirit will remain always in our hearts..

Ronnie Wagner

February 24, 2009

Please accept the sincere condolences of the Mighty Owls of Oakland Silver "B" team, a Sharks Ice at Oakland team. We are saddened to hear of this tragedy. Sincerely, Ronnie Wagner, Captain

Greg Robbins

February 24, 2009

I don't know where to start...Brian and I became friends while working at Pier 1 Imports. From there our friendship continued to grow and we were pretty much inseparable: from hanging out in the arcade, to shooting hoops in the driveway or just hanging out with friends. From there Brian then got a job at Wells Fargo and he dragged me along with him. I still work for Wells 20 years later, and I owe it all to him. As he went away to college we still stayed in contact but not as often as before. I ran into him at the Mountain View Oban Festivale one year and we caught up on each others lives.

I think the one character trait that I always liked about Brian was that he was very maticulous in everything he did. Especially when it was time to give a gift or a note to someone. He was always thinking of others and loved to show that through cards and/or gifts...And his SUPPER neat handwriting...

I always wanted to get back together with you Brian...I'll miss you!

Heidi, I'm sorry I never got a chance to get to know you but know this...My prayers and thoughts are with you and the Kobata family.

James Eby

February 24, 2009

I woke up this morning to a radio report about the incident and instantly checked the news to see if it was someone Brian might have played with, as most of you can imagine the shock and immediate sadness that I felt when I saw Brians name listed. I am sitting here completely stunned and can only take a small amount of peace in knowing Brian was doing what he loved. Brian was one of the most knowledgeable guys around when it came to hockey, I always enjoyed talking to him in the morning to discuss the prior evenings NHL events. You will be missed Brian. Never Forget.
GO SHARKS

Carole Bradley

February 24, 2009

We have lost a gentle man..He will be missed.

Linna

February 24, 2009

Dear Heidi,
I am so sorry about your loss. After a day learned about the news, I am still in disbelief and shocked. Brian has left you the most precious thing - the baby. Please stay strong and take very good care of yourself and the baby. God bless you and your family.

Raul Rivas

February 24, 2009

Heidi,

My deepest condolences to you and Brian's family. Even though I never knew Brian, he and I had one thing in common: Our love for hockey. If there is anything I can do, just name it.

Your friend and co-worker,

Robin Kendall

February 24, 2009

Brian was a truly kind and thoughtful friend, always willing to help, listen, or have a talk. His kindness to others was far-reaching. I will miss him very much. My thoughts are with you, Heidi, and with your family.

Scott Marsh

February 24, 2009

I didn't know Brian but as part of the Sharks Ice hockey family I wanted to express my deepest sympathy for your loss. I am a member of team Beer and we too lost our friend Kelly Calabro the same night you lost Brian. It was a tragic day for all. We try to take comfort in the fact that if they had to go, they went doing something they loved with good friends by their sides. I guess Brian and Kelly are playing for the same team now.. All my best to you and your family.

julie Takagi

February 24, 2009

Heidi,Auntie Susie, Uncle Min and steve,

I am so sorry.. He was a Great friend and Cousin.. We shared many memories together starting when we where babies and being in the Playpen together. Sleep overs and when we would just hang out. He was there when my dad passed away.. He would always be there when you needed him.. I miss you brian..We will all miss him very much.. Love julie

Kathy Williams

February 24, 2009

Hi heidi I know your mom through my mom and I am very sorry to hear what happened to your husband. You and your family are in my prayers

February 24, 2009

Dear Heidi,
I always use to see Brian's picture on your desk. I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss. Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, just know that you are very close in every thought and prayer.
With deepest sympathies
Rita Vinayak, Flextronics (Milpitas)

Chris Lovett and family

February 24, 2009

I went to high school and graduated with Brian. His passion and attitude was truly amazing and I admired him for both. I was really looking forward to seeing him at our twenty year reunion this year. Words cannot express how saddened I was to hear this news and the Kobata family will be in the thoughts of our family for weeks to come.

Stephen Vonderach

February 24, 2009

A few minutes was all you needed to spend with Brian to know what a fun, friendly, and kind person he was. As a fellow hockey player, it was easy to tell his enthusiasm for the game was genuine. It's deeply saddening that the world has lost such a good person.

February 24, 2009

Dear Heidi-I went to High School with Brian and am so saddened by the news of his sudden passing. May God Bless you and your family. Keep him in your heart and he will always be with you. Dios te bendiga.

Mark

February 24, 2009

I didn't know Brian but as another hockey player, know that everyone who plays is grieving with you, and has you in their thoughts and prayers.

February 24, 2009

Hi Heidi, I am a good friend of Sue, Brian's mother. I am so very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May God be with you and carry you through this difficult time.

Thuyen and Mike Boman, Fremont, California

Catherine Sanchez

February 24, 2009

Heidi, I am so sorry to hear about Brian. I am not sure if you remember me or not, my maiden name is Veloza. We met when I worked for Anritsu as the AP supervisor. I was so shocked to hear this happened and to someone as nice an honest as Brian. Please know that he will be greatly missed, I'm sorry this has happened to your family. I will keep you in my thoughts.

Steve Vonderach

February 24, 2009

Heidi:
Words cannot describe the sadness with which we feel your loss. Brian was a good and decent man, kind, caring, considerate, and loyal. He was family first, and always talked about how special life was with you. Obviously we also shared a love of the SHARKS, and it is that that I will miss most, the daily discussions aobut how they are doing, and their prospects for winning the Cup this, and every year. I always felt that he was not an employee of mine, he was a close friend of mine. I will miss him terribly. I pray that you find the strength to get through this most difficult time. If you need anything, just ask, we're there for you.

Chris Newell`

February 24, 2009

When we played against, i always remeber the love and passion Brian had for the game, we have truely lost a great friend and a great person.

Liza Yan

February 24, 2009

Hi Heidi,
You are in our prayer. May the love of your friend and Family carry you through your grief.

Bonnie Bardo

February 24, 2009

My Heart goes out to all of Brian's family & friends at this time and in the days ahead.I am so very sorry for your loss.Brian will greatly missed here at Anritsu for his positive happy attitude.My thoughts and prayers are with you all.GOD speed Brian...

Kaye Duncan

February 24, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with Brian's family here in the Anritsu TX office. May you find the strength to handle this difficult time of grief by drawing on each other's comfort and love.

Selena Lay

February 24, 2009

Brian was the nicest guy anyone could hope to meet. He will most definitely be missed.

Rachael Chambers

February 24, 2009

I knew Brian in high school. We were lab partners in biology and he always made me laugh. He was an absolutely amazing person. God bless you, Brian.

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