Bradley William Liermann, Jr., passed away on September 11, 2024, in El Cajon, California, at the age of 43. Born on November 28, 1980, in Fallbrook, California, Brad (aka- Bubba) lived a life marked by resilience, determination, and an unwavering spirit.
From a young age, Brad demonstrated natural leadership. Before the life-altering car accident he experienced at age 18, he worked as a manager at a fast-food restaurant—a role in which he thrived. With his honesty, strength, and kindness, Brad was the kind of person any company would be proud to have at the helm. Those who knew him believed that had life taken a different turn, he would have risen to become a general manager and beyond.
The accident that left Brad a quadriplegic (incomplete break at C3, C4, and C5) could have defined or diminished him—but Brad refused to let it. Doctors told him he would never walk again. Instead, with fierce determination and eight months of grueling physical rehabilitation, Brad walked out of rehab. From that moment forward, he faced each day with courage and grit. Though he endured constant physical pain—often described as a level 10 out of 10—he never let it steal his joy or his sense of humor.
Brad's thirst for knowledge never waned. After his accident, he pursued college classes with passion and curiosity. He loved to learn and relished spirited debates with his teachers—who admired his sharp mind and challenging questions. His dream was to become a lawyer; few could match his ability to argue any point with clarity and conviction.
Spiritually open-minded yet grounded in faith, Brad often spoke about the near-death experience he had during his accident. He described watching the scene unfold from above seeing the ambulance arrive and the jaws of life pull him from the wreckage. Though he didn't see a white light, Brad said he felt all-knowing and omnipresent in that moment. He knew Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and carried that faith with him throughout his life.
Brad found peace and joy in nature—especially when fishing. He was an avid fisherman who loved casting lines at the beach or at one of San Diego's many freshwater lakes alongside his fishing buddies. Life felt perfect when he was by the water with rod in hand and good company nearby.
Beyond fishing, Brad enjoyed gardening and took pride in creating a backyard oasis complete with a pond filled with koi fish, tilapia, and water turtles. He loved cooking his favorite meals and driving around in his beloved buggy—affectionately named "The Orange Pumpkin." He also adored animals and shared his home with many cherished cats (including his soul cat- Monkey), a Florida king snake, two box turtles, four leopard geckos, and a bearded dragon.
Brad's zest for life was contagious. Despite immense challenges, he built a full life for himself—purchasing a home, establishing routines that brought him comfort, enjoying music and television shows that made him laugh, and spending meaningful time with those closest to him.
He was fiercely protective of those he loved—especially his mother Myra and sister Lisa. Whether offering brotherly advice or chasing off unwelcome suitors, Brad's loyalty ran deep.
Brad was not only a survivor but a warrior—fighting for what was right and standing up for the weak whenever he could. His strength of character left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
May Bradley's memory bring comfort to all who knew him—and may we carry forward his legacy of resilience, love for learning, unshakable spirit, and boundless heart.
We will always love you, Brad!