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Brian Jose Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Brian Jose
Sponsored by Mindy Jose.
Niall O'Malley
April 8, 2013
Marilia - Over time and distance I lost touch with Brian. I just learned that he passed on. Somehow time and distance have been instantly removed. Your husband was a great guy. I worked with him and his brother Bill at Oxford Health Plans. I remember his kindness. He held himself out to all people as accessible. He was a good person and a good friend. He is missed.
Jerry Yacavone
August 8, 2011
I first met Brian when I was 6 years old in Mrs. Kern’s 1st grade class at Long Hill School in Trumbull, CT. Yes, he was Brian then…the nickname Slink wouldn’t be invented for several more years. Right from the first day I met him he was easily the most approachable person that I have ever met. He had a way about him that made strangers feel like they had known him for years and as a scared little kid on his first day in a new school I am sure it was this quality that attracted me to him immediately. We became fast friends and my earliest memories of him are talking about and drawing pictures of the popular movies of the day…Star Wars and King Kong (the good King Kong…the one with Jessica Lange). Even at a very young age Slink had already developed a passion for the big screen!
Our younger years were filled with lots of video games (Ultima was one of his favorites), shooting a lot of hoops (he had an 8” height advantage on me but was always nice enough to let me win every now and then so I would keep playing with him), and playing a lot of hockey (he never was able to fulfill one of his lifelong dreams of scoring a wrap around goal!). My kids played floor hockey in school last year and I explained to them how Uncle Slinky got that sport banned from Trumbull High School when he got hit in the eye one day during gym. He wore his Randy “Macho Man” Savage sunglasses for weeks after that claiming it was on “doctor’s orders”.
I was always touched at the effort Slink would make for our friendship. He would walk half way across Trumbull to hang out with me, pick me up every morning and drive me to high school, and drive an hour and a half up to UCONN just to spend a few hours. I think my favorite thing about Slink was that we didn’t have to be doing anything to have a great time. I am typically a person that likes to be doing things. However, some of my happiest memories are of hanging out with him doing absolutely nothing. I can remember sitting in his parent’s basement on their tan leather furniture for hours at a time not doing much of anything, but having the best time doing it. He was always so comfortable just being himself. He never tried to pretend he was something he wasn’t to impress anyone. In thinking about it now it was this understated self confidence that I think I admired so much about him.
As we got older I was lucky enough to call Slink my roommate as we shared a condo in Fairfield together with our friends Tom, Pinky and Drew. We had a lot of great times there as well as hanging out at Felt Forum next door playing pool. After we moved out I went with him to look at his condo in Beacon Falls and remember how proud he was to buy his first home. He always loved the stream across the street from that condo. With his window open he could hear the noise it made and he always said how relaxing he found that. The moving barrage started for everyone at that point and Slink and I served as moving partners for countless friends and family members through the years. I was also fortunate to call Slink my Best Man when I got married. I think through his lifetime Slink served in this capacity 5 times if I count correctly (although I wouldn’t be shocked to find out it was more than that)? His toast at my wedding had to set some sort of record when it lasted an astonishing 10 minutes and 20 seconds! And then I remember how overjoyed he was when he met Marilia. He would always talk about how happy she made him and that was evident. The only thing that I think brought him more joy were his children who he adored above everything else.
Not a day goes by that I don’t think about Slink. Whenever I see a reference to the New York Jets, hear John Amarante sing the national anthem before a Rangers game, see someone eating lobster with a plastic bib on, flip through the channels and see “Lonesome Dove” on TV, see the Cheers episode that featured Wade Boggs, see an ad for Phantom of the Opera, hear some professional wrestler’s theme music, see someone eating a hot dog with just bacon/fries/vanilla shake at Duchess, here a Bangle’s song, or hear Mel Kiper talking about the NFL Draft I can’t help but smile and think about my friend. I am a better person for having known Slink and he did so much to help shape me into who I am today during his all too short 40 years. I will miss him for the rest of my life but I also take comfort in knowing that all of his wonderful qualities will live on and blossom in Amelie, Evan and Amanda as they grow.
Jon Stadler
February 7, 2011
Brian was a great guy. I was fortunate to meet him while we both worked at Oxford. We both enjoyed the Jets-Pats rivalry and both attended a preseason game in Foxboro together. He was thrilled when we saw Randy Moss catch his first TD pass of his career. On e story i always remember fondly that Brain told was about traveling to The Meadowlands with his brother Bill. They stopped at the Vince Lombardi Rest Area to use the bathroom on the way to the game. Bill, the germaphobe, didn't see a strip of fly paper in the men's room that was hanging from the ceiling. Brian said it was a riot because all during the fame all Bill could do was keep rubbing that area of his head and looking ticked off.
It has been awhile since Brian and I last talked. We would get quick moments here and there to catch up with each other on Facebook, and that was always nice. When we chatted it was like we just saw each other recently.
As the Billy Joel song says "Only the Good Die Young". My deepest sympathy goes out to his entire family. He may be gone, but will never be forgotten.
Sarah Walewski
January 13, 2011
Brian was a wonderful man. He will be missed by everyone who him. Brian touched the lives of everyone who knew him, and he left lasting impressions on everyones heart. We should all look up to Brian and how well he lived his life. I will always remember all of the good times we had, whether it be a picnics or family gatherings at stellas. He will never be forgotten.
Ryan Fisher
January 12, 2011
January 12, 2011
Mindy-
What a great idea and way to have an ongoing tribute for Brian. I have know Brian
for 4 years when I moved next door to him and Marilia. As I moves stuff in Brian came over and introduced himself and immediately asked if I needed help. This was just the type of person Brian was. Always offering to help out.
A true family man, genuine caring person with s great sense of humor. I did look past him being a Jets fan because he was just as big a Red Sox fan as I was. We would occaisionally watch games and looked forward to taking our wives and children to different family places . Although only knowing Brian for a short time, he will be missed very much. A life taken way too soon, a terrible tragedy, but you will never be forgotten.
Jim Yacavone
January 11, 2011
I think this memorial web site is an awesome tribute to Brian. My brother Jerry and Slink were the best of friends, in fact Brian served as Jerry's best man at his wedding and delivered one of the funniest and sincerest toasts that I have ever heard...also one of the longest as he enjoyed the stage that day!
I also played softball with him for several years and looked forward to sharing in his laid back, competitiveness every Sunday. There was certainly never a dull moment when he was around and I liked sharing barbs with him.
In recent times I would occasionally run into Slink at a function. I was excited that he moved his family to Prospect where my family lives as I knew he would be great for the community and I would have the opportunity to seem him and his family at town events.
I was thrilled to see the volunteer firefighters get together to give your family a special Christmas this year with Santa arriving on the fire engines and hope that brought you some comfort this holiday season.
In closing our family has endured a tough 12 months this year culminated by the untimely loss of Brian. To his family we continue to think of you and being local to you are here for you should you ever need our help in any way.
Wishing you the healing of time and memories...
Jim, Gail, James and Adrianne Yacavone 203.758.3390
Jean Sandler
January 10, 2011
I knew Brian when he was a teenager and he was then, a wonderful, loving human being, Always a smile, kind word and caring thought came from Brian. His passing was untimely - he was a wonderful human being with much to offer. My love and thoughts go to his wife and children, his Mother and brother and sister and their families.
Mena Niro
December 11, 2010
Marilia - my heart goes out to you during this very difficult time. Brian was an extremely genuine human being who touched the lives of so many. Most importantly, he was so very proud of you and the children. I don't think a day would go by at work that he did not have a story or two about the little ones. They were and will continue to be his pride and joy.
May you find comfort in family, friends and the fond memories you have. He will forever watch over you and the children as you continue your journey here on earth.
You will be in my thoughts and prayers each day. If there is anything I can do please do not hesitate to contact me.
With heartfelt sympathy...
Mena
Kimberley (Redman) Spath
December 9, 2010
Very sad to hear about Slink. He was a genuine, great person. Thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Kip Curry
December 7, 2010
My memories of Slink echo all those previous. He was a genuine man. During the too short time I knew him, he was welcoming to me in all ways possible. He loved his friends , and can only imagine the love he most certainly had for his family. I trust God will look over his family, and that the days ahead will be filled with all the excellent memories he would want us all to have ! . I will miss him.
Kristen Geraghty
December 6, 2010
Slink had so many gifts. One of my favorite was his clever sense of humor. He could make you laugh till you cried. Most of my memories of Brian are filled with laughter. He was an amazing friend.
My prayer is that God would provide comfort and healing for the Jose family. Marilia I am so sorry for your loss.
December 6, 2010
Slink was a person that had so much to offer. I loved his clever and silly sense of humor. He could make you laugh till you had tears. More importantly he was a good friend.
My prayer is that God will provide comfort and strength to the Jose family. I am so sorry for your loss Marilia.
Lori Lipsitz
December 6, 2010
I worked with Brian at Skandia. He was a man of integrity and a strong work ethic. He always had a smile, a kind word and some really good advice. I will always think of him fondly.
Marilia, my heart goes out to you and your family. You have my deepest condolences.
Scott Stolze
December 6, 2010
To everyone in the Jose family, I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. Brian was a great guy, and while I primarily only knew him through the work environment, I have no doubt he was a great family man, too.
Randy Booth
December 6, 2010
Brian was one of those special guys - anyone who had the fortune to run into him on any given day would inevitably walk away a bit happier.
To his family,
I am sorry for your loss. you will be in our prayers.
Sincerely,
Randy Booth
Drew DePalma
December 6, 2010
Slink was a good friend and one of the best friends at Southern that anyone could ask for. He was always happy and always very helpful. I will alway cherish the memories of the hiking adventures that we had and will continue to think of him every day. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.
Trina Turcotte
December 6, 2010
I am so sorry to hear of the Passing of Brian. I worked with him for years at Oxford Health plans. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.
Kimberly Manzone(Shaw)
December 6, 2010
I have known Slink forever and I am gratfeul that he was in my life, but more importantly,he was my brothers best friend. No words can express how sad I feel, but I know that there is a reason and God knows why. Slink was always a gentleman and a gentle soul. I will remember him always...another Angel among us. Morilia, I am very sorry for your loss and may God Bless you and give you strength to get through this extremely difficult time.
Abby Seay
December 6, 2010
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family during this most difficult time. We are all very sad to loose such a wonderful man.
Danielle McCain
December 6, 2010
I worked with Brian at Oxford Health Plans. I don't think I even met a nicer more caring person in my life. You could always count on Brian to give you a big smile and cheerful hello everyday. I remember him being so passionate about the Youth Group where he volunteered. I recently saw Brian at an Oxford Reunion. He talked about his wife and children. He was so happy and proud. We will all miss him. My prayers are with his family. Brian was a very special person that will live in all of of our hearts forever. I feel blessed to have known him.
Melissa Figueroa
December 5, 2010
I have worked at directDME with Brian for over three years and sat right near his desk. He was my manager but I felt he was more like family. He was always sincerely friendly and caring. He talked about his family so often, I almost feel as though I know them personally and it hurts my heart to know his children who he deeply loved and cherished will not grow up by his side. I have to believe God had other plans for Brian but my heart hurts for the loss of this beautiful person. I am going to miss our conversations about our children like how both our sons loved Thomas the Tank Engine and how we knew the episodes word for word...as Evan was his "little bud". We are all going to miss Brian very much and he has set an example as to how one should live life and what is really important.
Regina Reilly Gentile
December 5, 2010
Brian was truly a genuinely good guy. I feel priviledged to have known him through elementary and high school. My thoughts and prayers are with his beautiful family during this difficult time. Rest in Peace Brian.
Heather Pofok
December 5, 2010
Morilia: I am sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Kristen (Bonnett) Misurale
December 5, 2010
I was so saddened to hear of Slink's passing. I have such fond memories of him back in the neighborhood in Trumbull and with Grace Youth Group. My prayers are with the entire Jose family at this time. I am so sorry for your loss.
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