Brian Anthony Kelleher, DDS
April 22, 1958 - July 5, 2017
Palmer resident Brian Anthony Kelleher, DDS, 59, passed away unexpectedly in his home on Tuesday, July 5th, 2017.
A service will be held Sunday, July 16th at the Palmer Train Depot (Palmer Community Center), 610 S. Valley Way, Palmer between the hours of 4pm-6pm.
Brian was born April 22, 1958 to Robert and Dorothy (both deceased).
Brian held a degree in Pediatric Dentistry from Rutgers University in New Jersey and received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from University of Southern California.
Brian worked for First Step Dentistry in Turlock, CA for 10 years before coming to Alaska with his husband Steven to pursue their new adventure. In March of 2016, they opened Dr. K's Pediatric Dentistry with the dream of giving back to the community that so welcomed them. It was his goal to make Dr. K a household name. He involved himself and his business in many sponsorships, including the Mat-Su Minors, and Colony Days (and Colony Christmas).
One of Brian's passions was to travel. Brian has been from the top of the world (Barrow) to the bottom of it (Antarctica). He always looked forward to planning the next trip or adventure. His favorite travel destination was South Africa. There's even a tree planted in Brian and Steven's honor for being beloved guests.
He is survived by his husband Steven Blades, also of Palmer, his siblings, Sean Kelleher (Brenda) of San Leandro, CA, Gail Burke (Lon) of Tucson, AZ, Lisa Farnham (Paul) of Spencer, MA, Robin Stamm (Michael) of Concord, CA, Robert Kelleher DDS of Fair Oaks, CA and many nieces and nephews.
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May the God of all comfort strengthen the family during this time of deep sorrow. Those who pass on, God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes. My sincerest condolences. (Psalms 116:15)
July 16, 2017
July 15, 2017
July 15, 2017
I am terribly sad to learn of Brian's passing, and I am so sad for Steve and the rest of Brian's family. Though we had a budding professional friendship, I saw in Brian a true and good hearted man, and had hoped that we could continue to grow as friends. May his family find comfort and peace in his passing
July 14, 2017
P.s. Left out from my sister robins' entry from 7/14. Brian also worked as a mailman whose route included robin Williams' house in topanga canyon. He was a character!
Gail Burke
Sister
July 14, 2017
Dr. K was an amazing person. While I only got to meet him once, at my son's first ever dental appointment, he made a huge impression on me. His attention to detail to get Every. Single. Thing. perfect about his practice was clear. I called the office and talked to Steven about what an appointment would be like, and he was wonderful and reassuring. Dr. K and Steven made a huge, positive difference in the lives of Alaskan kids. We were so lucky to have met him.
Jenny B
July 14, 2017
The world is definitely at a disadvantage without brian. I think he was Angel material. I look forward to seeing brian again on the other side. Love, sister gail
July 14, 2017
Dr K was such a shining light at First Step Dental. The love he had for children was genuine and he always made my son and daughter laugh.
Julianna Stocking
July 14, 2017
Brian was a favorite at his CAUCC church home. The children loved his participation in youth activities. He was greatly missed when he and Steve left for AK. His passing has been a shock to all of us. Good thoughts to all who cared for Brian.
Nancy Howard
July 14, 2017
I had the great good fortune to have Brian as my youngest sibling (there are 6 of us). From when he was a little kid, he was perceptive, sensitive to the needs of others, supportive, and loving. He was also always ready for silliness and fun and was generous with his wonderful sense of humor. Brian was also able to make everyone feel special. He gave his full attention and care to those who came into his life.
Besides traveling, Brian was an avid reader and often shared his books (and thoughts about them). He also had a colorful series of careers: he worked for Amtrak, at DisneyWorld, as tour guide at Yellowstone National Park (he could do a wonderful impression of how a tour guide sounds while driving a bus), and for nearly 20 years he was a Chiropractor. He then turned to pediatric dentistry, so it's safe to say he was also an exceptional student with a strong interest in helping others. Although Brian's physical presence leaves a big hole in our family, his unique sparkle will always be with me. It's so lovely to know he touched so many hearts.
Robin Kelleher Stamm
Family
July 14, 2017
Dr. K always had a kind smile and a joke for my sons. They loved to talk to him! He will be missed. His friends and family are in our prayers.
Sagen
July 13, 2017
We will miss Dr. K so much! He was not just our daughters' dentist, which he was the best ever, he was a super nice guy who brightened your day and made you smile just by being around him! Our condolences go to Steve, who has that same gift .
Danny Dantzler
July 13, 2017
My deepest sympathy and condolences to family and friends of Brian. May memories of good times shared and the love shown remain in your hearts.
Virginia Cruz
July 13, 2017
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