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Donal Brislain Obituary
Aug. 21, 1922 ~ Dec. 24, 2018
Antioch, California
Donal Brislain passed away on 12/24 due to surgical complications. Don is survived by 3 children: Greg Brislain of Chico; Carolie Sly of Walnut Creek; & Alan (Rebecca) Brislain of Sparks NV: four grandchildren: Caitlin Sly & Sly, Cooper Brislain, & Cassandra (Chris) Wagner; & one great grandson Henry Wagner. Don was married to Sybil Brislain from 1945 until her death in 1991. He later married Nicky Tom. After Nicky passed, he married Delight Chester.
Don grew up in East Chicago; received his B.S. in Forestry from the University of Idaho; served in the Army during WWII (New Guinea & the Philippines); then spent most of his career as a teacher & counselor at Antioch Jr High & Antioch Sr High. He was a Kiwanian, & was a finalist for Contra Costa "Citizen of the Year" in the 1980s.
Don loved to golf (4 holes in one!), play cards, & read books & newspapers. He also loved baseball & had played semi-pro baseball & fast pitch softball. He shared his love of horse racing with his mother Gladys. His grandchildren remember him for his magic tricks & sense of humor.
Many former students would tell his children "Your father got me into college", or "Your father got me out of trouble", or "Your father got me a job".
A memorial for Don is scheduled from 2:30-4:30 PM on 4/13, 2019, at the Hillside Complex-Vista Room at Rossmoor, CA.
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Memories and Condolences
for Donal Brislain
Sponsored by East Bay Times.
Janice Stout Yankura
July 29, 2022
When I was a School Psychologist at Antioch Middle School Donal Brislain was a counselor. He was a wonderful counselor. When he gave me a referral for counseling he would say, "I've got a great kid for you". He really liked and respected the students. He was an excellent mentor for me in the early years of my career. I learned so much from him. He was truly an inspiration for his colleagues. I will always have fond memories of working with this fine man.
Debbie Tom
April 14, 2019
We are so sorry to hear about Don's passing. We were so blessed to have him in our life as well as Nicky's life. He loved Nicky very much and stayed by her side to the end. We loved him and are very thankful that he was a part of our lives. Brian and Debbie Tom, Prineville, Oregon
Lonnie Presser
April 13, 2019
He was my algebra teacher and my counselor, plus we painted a house together. A wonderful person to be around. Antioch schools and community need more people like him. He will be missed. Rest In Peace.
Joe Nunes
February 6, 2019
One of the best teachers I ever had. He made learning Algebra I interesting and fun by the way he explained how to do the various exercises. It was a great start for me as I progressed in my future math classes. Mr Brislain was a great example for me to remember throughout my years and apply to my life.
February 4, 2019
As a first year teacher in 1969, Bris explained to me the pros and cons of referrals. Never wrote another one just handled any problem myelf. Great lesson from a great guy. Joan Rogers Hough
Richard Altman
February 4, 2019
Sorry to hear of your loss. My sympathy and condolence to all the family. May the God of all comfort, comfort you in your time of grief. (2 Cor. 1:3)
Carolyn Graham
February 3, 2019
A great man! He guided me through high school and influenced my choice in Colleges. That set up my course for life. Thank you Mr Brislain.
Dave Romo
February 1, 2019
Smartest teacher I ever had rest in peace.
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