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BORN
1956
DIED
2025
UPCOMING SERVICE
Brian Markley Obituary
Brian Markley November 3, 1956 August 18, 2025
It is with saddened hearts, Brian Markley passed away at home on August 18th with his family by his side. Brian showed determination, strength and resilience during his battle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carol Salisbury and Ned Markley. He spent his childhood years in Mukilteo and graduated from Mariner High School in 1975.
Brian was happily married to Kathy for 43 years and together they raised their family in Arlington, Washington. Brian leaves his wife Kathy, his beloved three daughters, Christina Cloninger (Alan), Shannon Platt (Wayne), Allison Bingham (Steve) and 4 grandkids; Kahri, Wylie, Colby and Winnie with another grandchild on the way! He leaves his sister Laurie (Bruce), Gini (Ed), Kathy (Frank), brother Larry (Mary), sister in-law Judy (Larry), brothers in-law Ken, and Fred (Mila). He leaves numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Brian cherished lifelong friendships and was known for his kind spirit, and sharp mind.
His love of horticulture began early and could instantly recall the Latin botanical names of any plant. It led to one of his first jobs at the Garden Center at Silver Lake in Everett. After a few years, he then settled into a long career in management for Olson's - QFC grocery. Brian had many talents, helping his girls develop their own green thumb, and knack for working on any vehicle. He spent years meticulously working on transforming a 1936 Chevy Coupe from a "heap of rust" (Kathy's words!) into a real beauty that awarded him numerous "Best of Show" trophies from local car shows.
Brian will be deeply missed and remembered for his kindness and generous help with any project, big or small. Whatever the task, he was there with a smile on his face and a helping hand to anyone in need!
Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Brians life on October 5th from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. at Floral Hall/ Forest Park- 802 E. Mukilteo Blvd, Everett, WA 98203.
Remembrances may be made at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, or a charity of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for Brian Markley
Memories and Condolences
for Brian Markley
10 Entries
Wiley Markley
September 7, 2025
Kathy, we are so sorry for your loss and the loss to Brians whole family. I know he is going to be dearly missed. I loved running into Brian or talking to him on the phone. I will truly miss his humor, and especially his smile and his laugh, I loved it. R.I.P. Cousin until we meet again!!
Bob and Laurie
September 1, 2025
Kathy, Christina, Shannon and Allison.
Our deepest condolences, to your families. We often think of our time at Packwood with your family. Brian was such a nice man who always made a person feel welcomed, we will miss him dearly. I hope HDC has found Brian!
You are all in our thoughts.
Dave Colrburn
September 1, 2025
what are the nicest people I´ve ever worked for he and Cathy were a beautiful match and what a beautiful family. My heart is saddened for their loss. He was definitely one of a kind who treated everyone with respect and kindness. It´s hard not to love that family he will be missed greatly
Jan Groeneveld
August 31, 2025
Kathy,
I am so sorry I can´t even find words. Blessings sweet friend. Praying for you and your family always. Jan
Dave Cernich
August 31, 2025
Brian and I grew up in the same neighborhood. He was always kind, funny, intelligent and always had a smile on his face. Just a great person who I always enjoyed running into over the years. My condolences to his family and all his friends.
Cindy w
August 31, 2025
My condolences to his family
Katheryn Markley
August 31, 2025
Big brother when you left us you took a piece of my heart along. I'll miss on my birthday telling you that I caught up in age with my Irish twin.
I looked up to you more than ever after Mom and Dad left us.
Even though we tangled like cats and dogs as youngsters we still always loved each other.
You will forever be in my heart and soul and will be dearly missed
RIP Big Brother
Your little sister who looks like your little sister
August 31, 2025
You have been there my whole life. I can´t bear to think of my world without you in it. I think of us as bookends. The oldest and the youngest. The only two with red hair and freckles. You have always been my safe place in a storm. My rock. It may sound cliche, but it´s not. It´s true. You are the only one of us kids who has never raised a hand to me in anger. Sure, you´ve told me when you thought I was out of line, as you should. But you did it with love and respect. I have always looked up to you. My big brother. The one I have always admired and respected above all others. You have shown me what a man should be. As a husband, a father, a grandfather, a son, a brother, a nephew, a friend. Your family is so sweet, and I love how they are so close and are always there for each other. You and Kathy are the reason for that. Your marriage has always been an inspiration to me, and I admire how you have built and nurtured your relationship and your family. I know that they will be lost without you, but they will find their way, together. Because together you have built such a solid foundation that they can stand steady on. I will always love and admire you so much. Thank you for being the best big brother a girl could ask for.
Kathy Markley
August 30, 2025
Big brother when you left us you took a part of my heart with you. I wish now I
told you how special you were to me after Mom and Dad left us, I always looked up to you.
We used to fight like cats and dogs when we were young but we still loved each other.
I will forever miss you
Rest in Peace and we'll see each other again.
Love you always
Larry Markley
August 30, 2025
I will truly miss you big brother! You were always there for me! you know I love you as those were the last words we said to each other. you are gone but will never be forgotten. RIP
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