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BORN

1934

DIED

2020

Wilford Brimley Obituary

Wilford Brimley, the character actor known for his gruff and grumpy persona in movies including “Cocoon” and “The Natural,” television shows such as “The Waltons” and “Our House,” and commercials for Quaker Oats and Liberty Medical’s supplies for diabetes patients, died Saturday, August 1, 2020 in St. George, Utah, at the age of 85.

See the full obituary and coverage from Legacy.com.
Published by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Aug. 2, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Wilford Brimley

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91 Entries

JAMES ARTHUR. HARRISON.

November 17, 2024

THE '' BIGGEST ''SECRET MODESTO EVER HAD ''''''IN (1999) I HAD THE 'RARE' OPPORTUNITY TO ''SHOOT GUN'S'' WITH WILFORD' AT THE 'GUN RANGE' IN MODESTO, CALIF' ON A ''SUNDAY AFTERNOON '' JUST ME & WILFORD BRIMLEY & ED HILTMAN' RANGEMASTER AND BEST FRIEND ''' A PRIVATE ''SHOOTING COMPETITION ''' I DID SOME 'TRICK SHOT'S' FOR WILFORD' AND HE WAS 'AMAZED ''' HE TOLD US '' ''' YOU 'OKLAHOMA BOY'S' CAN SURE 'SHOOT'' SHOOT LIKE THE ''HOUSE IS ON FIRE ''' BEST SHOT IVE EVER SEEN IN MY LIFE '''' AND 'WILFORD' WAS A VERY GOOD SHOT ALSO '' HE WAS THE '' NICEST '' 'PERSON' IVE EVER MET OTHER THAN MY '' MOTHER '' . ... James Arthur Harrison...oklahoma, u.s.a

Emily Hampton

November 9, 2024

One of the best genuine actors ever to hit the screen..he was so real..so down to earth, like he could be related to you kinda man..thank goodness we have the opportunity to watch his shows and movies anytime we feel the need to see his magnificent gift of acting.. ride high in the morning Wilford until the sunset you will forever be remembered and missed..rest in glory sir..❤

Jonathan Jonathans

August 8, 2024

Remembering a legend today; taking my personal health journey seriously. Bless up

DJ Pearce

April 9, 2024

What a great , under-estimated actor. I loved the way he was able to steal away scenes from the lead actors is so many movies. My greatest regret was not making his acquaintance and telling him how much I appreciated his work , when he was in town making a movie. I saw him standing on the steps of his hotel , waiting for his driver, and I just couldn't overcome my personal reticence to intrude on him. What a man!

Rick Diaz

August 24, 2023

I met Wilford at Richard Farnsworth's memorial back in 2000. It was an interesting introduction. I told him I was Dick's friend, that I didn't know him like he did, but he touched my life.. he looked at me and said in that gruf voice of his. " It doesn't matter, he touched your life! That's why we're all here....I went on to mentioned that I'd written a screen play a Western were Dick would have played my Grandpa..I added that Burt Kennedy who was in the hospital at the time was going to Direct it...we would dedicate the project to his memory. That must have registered with him..he said" If you and some of these good people are going to honor my friend. You sure as hell can count me in! You've got a pen and paper? You're a writer aren't you? My agents name is Merritt Blake..with two t's , he doesn't like it misspelled. Now read it back to me..." I did ..." Good! I don't know if you can write, at least you can spell..You call him, he'll tell you where to send the script.. It was like a scene right out of The Natura...lol! Merritt gave me the okay, that Wilford would be
available for the part. I told Burt about it. He said " Great! He'll be just fine. I told him he would direct it and we'd dedicate the film to Dick's memory..." Okay kid, just give me some time, so I can get well.... I'm sure Wilford, Burt, and Richard are all getting a good laugh together right now. There's something about them Western Stars that makes them special!!
God bless you Cowboy!
We'll all make a film in Heaven soneday!

Johnny Johnson

April 11, 2021

I was riding home today with my 80 year old Mother-In-Law, and we were discussing Movies and Cacoon came up and I could not remember Wilford’s name. What a talented man love his movies and acting. He will be missed. I’m going home tonight to ways couple of his movies to celebrate his life. To his family his memory lives on through his movies and outstanding talent. Thanks Wilford for what you gave us .

Jenifer Baribault

February 8, 2021

Thanks for the memories, you will be missed RIP Wilford Brimley

Neil Haines-lawson

December 28, 2020

Grew up watching this man fantastic actor

Tom Hanson

November 25, 2020

Wilford was also in The Thing playing a Dr. who realized the alien 'thing' could only be halted if the entire Antarctic Station and its equipment were destroyed and burned which would also kill the alien. I love his portrayal and how he spoke what he was thinking on his mission. I heard he lived close to me in Salt Lake City [South of] but I never went looking. We fans think we know celebs because we have seen and heard so much from them, but they deserve a private life. I wish he could have come to one of my openings. That would have been way cool.
He will be greatly missed even by his unknown loving fans.
TDH

ANDREA GIANNA NUNEZ

October 30, 2020

HAPPY , HALLOWEEN TO A LONG-TIME OUR HOUSE ACTOR TO YOU !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! SIR MARK 1:08-1:11 !!!!!!!!!!!!! PSALMS 23:01-23:70 ......... HOSEA 3:02 .......... & PROVERBS 4:16 ..........

October 7, 2020

My condolences to the Brimley family and friends. May fond memories and God continue to provide comfort and peace today, tomorrow, and always.

Mary and Temple Tucker

October 4, 2020

Our condolences to the Brimley family. We had the privilege of once meeting Mr. Brimley at the Zurich Ranch in New Mexico. What an honor for us. We will never forget him.

Douglass Davies

September 22, 2020

Simply one of a kind. Memorable in every way. No one will replace him in his industry or in life. Deepest condolences to his family.

September 7, 2020

My deepest condolences to the family. May you find comfort in your treasured memories of Your loved one and May God continue to comfort you in the days, months and years ahead.

Mary Beth Robinson

September 4, 2020

So sorry for your loss, I dearly loved this man. I loved the way he talked and his acting. He will be sorely missed. God be with his family and friends.

Stephen Handy

August 27, 2020

Wilford Brimley was a great man, a friend to all and a hero in my book. He inspired me as a Marine and he was kind and a great friend. I remember one Veterans Day celebration in Sunriver Honor Park, St, George Utah ...not so long ago Wilford was our guest speaker and he did that very well.
He got up to the pulpit and began by looking out over the audience and then began speaking..., Well, it's a great day to honor our veterans and those we remember this day...... then he reached in his pocket for his wallet and out came a small white piece of paper, he looked at it quietly, then began to read...it's been a while since I did this so bear with me, while I do it again.
This needs repeating....... I Wilford Brimley do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies , foreign and domestic; That I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice..... (then he paused with tears in his eyes, choked up for only a moment, then finished with--)So Help Me God. There was not a dry eye in the house, he was our hero that day. I don't think I have felt prouder of anyone or anything than I did that day. Wilford continued: that is as true today as it was when I took that oath 68 years ago. this was a day the heavens opened up and we all felt honored and our faith, and love of Country grew and we would never be the same. I am so proud and grateful for Wilford, I will miss you my friend--- Semper fi Brother........fair winds and following seas...
Chaplain Stephen Handy Utah Dixie Detachment 1270 USMC.

August 24, 2020

The first time I saw Mr. Brimley he was team roping in Tremonton, Utah. I was totally star struck and my jaw hit the floor when he made a point to stop and talk to my grandpa. I had no idea they had a work history together. He was always so friendly. My heart hurts for his loved ones.

Dan and Carol Devers

August 22, 2020

Our condolences go out to the Brimley family at this time. Wilford’s son Jim would frequent our pet store. He was one of our favorite people but we lost track of him once we left Utah thirty years ago. We continue to surround ourselves with loads of animals on our farm in Ohio.

De Ann

August 12, 2020

I met Mr Brimley 20 + years ago when I was driving passenger carts in the airport. Sometimes he would take a ride, sometimes not.On one occasion he told me he was there to pick up his granddaughter. He said “ she makes me cry! She puts her arms around my neck and says I love you grandpa, and my heart just overflows.” I’ve had this on my mind since I heard of his passing and decided to share. My condolences to the family, may he Rest In Peace.

Mick Lipohar

August 11, 2020

Jack Llorens

August 11, 2020

Rest In Peace Wilford! You will be missed.

Mick

August 10, 2020

Watching Wilfred for years and then working with him on East Texas Oil, a movie shot in Alberta,,, he was a charming and polite man

mike belt

August 8, 2020

My ex wife and I were having dinner one evening in a nice restaurant when Wilford Brimley (in his signature overalls) with his granddaughter came over to our table and said “I just wanted to meet my granddaughter’s pre-school teacher”. We shook hands and chatted for a few moments. Great fun! We were the envy of all the patrons there. A great man never to be forgotten.

Dick Yates

August 8, 2020

Rest in Peace Mr. Brimley. Such a wonderful actor. His all too brief scenes in the 1981 movie Absence of Malice were superb. My heartfelt condolences to his family.

August 8, 2020

Mr. Brimley was an excellent actor. When he performed in movies or television he was always an outstanding talent. May his family find some comfort in these loving messages for him. He will be missed by his many, many admirers. JA

EDWARD DAVID CULLEN

August 6, 2020

I , WATCHED OUR HOUSE BACK , WHEN I WAS 8 YEARS OLD SEE , YOU AT THE BRAND-NEW WORCESTER STADIUM TO YOU !!!!!!!!!!!!! SIR WITH MY FRIENDS .......... PETER 22:03:22 ...........

Richard Luce

August 6, 2020

Many wonderful memories with you, Bill and my Dad. See you at the ballpark.

August 5, 2020

Wilford was a true gentleman who had many talents. His performances in movies and television were all outstanding. His ability to not seem to be acting was his strength. He was the BEST---Pat M.

August 5, 2020

Will Brimley has added to the quality of my life with all the many roles he has played as an actor. I met him, briefly, and I told him this. He just sort-of mumbled. It seems he was also a humble man. RIP Will B.

Bryan Klinebriel

August 5, 2020

Condolences

Derek Jackson

August 5, 2020

Admired Wilford for quacker oats commercials as a kid and grandpa gus on our house....he did so much good for people by raising Diabetes awareness across the world. A true legend in acting And an all around great man....I loved how he always told people in interviews ( I'm just a fella ) He never let it go to his head how truly talented he was. RIP Wilford

Terrence Carroll

August 4, 2020

I sincerely will you, Mr Brimly. You always presented the Grandpa image to me. You and Tom Selick were the best in Silver Creek

August 4, 2020

Wilford was an outstanding talent. He should have been recognized with various acting awards for his excellent performances. He had many, many admirers who will forever remember him. Bill M.

August 4, 2020

My condolences to the family and friends of Mr.Wilford Brimley for your loss.

Stephanie Schell

August 4, 2020

Thanks for the memories.

Stephanie Schell

August 4, 2020

Remember him from several movies, television shows, and commercials.

Steve Ashley

August 4, 2020

An acting Icon. Nothing better for me than his work in The Natural and as the Post Master General in Seinfeld. My deepest condolences to his family. Rest in Peace and God Bless.

Donna Loock

August 3, 2020

RIP....devoted LDS member.

KB

August 3, 2020

My deepest sympathy to his family I enjoyed all of his roles. May the God of love and tender mercies comfort and strengthen you in this difficult time

Kathy & Buddy & Our Cat Family

August 3, 2020

We are heartbroken. We Love You. You will always be Gus from Our House to us. We loved Cocoon too. You could play any role & make us all believe it was real life. You are extremely talented & your talent was a gift to us all....we have all lost a friend onscreen. R.I.P. kind sir you will be missed & your loving legacy lives on. Forever in our hearts.

Matthew H

August 3, 2020

So many great roles, The China Syndrome, The Firm, Cocoon just to name a few. One of a kind and a great loss to the acting world.

THERESA SHIPMAN

August 3, 2020

A powerful actor, and one of my all time favorites. I am so so sorry that he has left us.. there's a hole in the world tonight...

mike simmons

August 3, 2020

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

Mary

August 3, 2020

Wilford was a great actor in all of his roles and will be missed. Please accept my deepest condolences for his loss. At this difficult time, may the God of tender mercies comfort you and may the memories of Wilford Brimley sustain you.

L.H. Bergara

August 3, 2020

Godspeed Mr. Brimley. Heaven finally has a real actor.

Sue Gartz

August 3, 2020

Watching Mr. Wilford Brimley apply his trade, he would do so in such convincing way he would make you believe that you knew or wish you knew him.Wilford was such a great actor. He will be missed.

JE Sowell

August 3, 2020

Enjoyed Mr. Brimley as an actor. He will be missed. Please accept my sincere condolences.

August 3, 2020

We knew him as a friend and a farrier. It was strange because he would quote Shakespeare while fitting shoes on our horses. What an interesting man and to hear his stories about how he broke into Hollywood———amazing!! He was a great friend and will be one of our favorite memories!
Lionel & Jeannine Ickes
Nampa, Idaho

August 3, 2020

Sorry for your loss,sending my deepest condolences,take comfort in knowing that God cares personally you and your family.

August 3, 2020

The world has lost an outstanding talent in Mr. Brimley. I address him as "Mr." out of respect for this genuine gentleman. His many movie and television appearances, especially OUR HOUSE, should have earned him many awards for his excellent acting. He was a favorite of mine , and he will forever be remembered by his millions of admirers. Jane M., Austerlitz, NY

jim binson

August 3, 2020

good man,good friend

terry reynolds

August 3, 2020

THANKS FOR THE WONDERFUL MEMORIES SIR....

BRY

August 3, 2020

Please accept my sincere condolences to the Brimley Family, May Almighty God in the Heavens comfort your hearts with peace and strength as you cope with your loss during this very difficult time.

Chet Simpson

August 3, 2020

Wilford was a great actor. Followed his movie career and enjoyed many hours seeing his films. But, I believe his greatest achievement was his graduation from Marine Corps boot camp and becoming a United States Marine. He was and always will be a Marine. OOH RAH. I know you have a place with St. Peter at the golden gate.

Debbie Sturgeon

August 3, 2020

Mr. Brimley was more than just an actor. When I watched him on screen, it was like watching a member of the family. He was so real and so genuine. I am SO going to miss him! Rest in peace Mr. Brimley! God bless your family for sharing you with us all these years.

August 3, 2020

A legend and a talent, a loss to many. My sympathies to the Brimley family, As you shed your tears over your loss, may God give you strength and comfort to carry you through your time of sorrow.

Sharon Kay

August 3, 2020

May You Rest In Peace!!!!
Bless The Family!

Yvonne

August 3, 2020

He was a great actor and he made you feel like you were listening to your grandfather.

Robyn

August 3, 2020

What’s legacy, he will truly be missed my so many. My deepest condolences to the Brimley family, so very sorry for your loss, may God be with all of you at this most difficult time.

August 3, 2020

What a life what a man Rest In Peace Wilford

Sheila Smith

August 3, 2020

In loving memory of a wonderful man and actor.

Otto Ohngren

August 2, 2020

During the mid sixties at the age of twelve, in Nampa Idaho I had the good fortune to have met Wilford, then known as Bill. As a farrier he shod my father’s race horses. Bill always took time to make conversation and include me in the activity. He was amazingly gifted at handling horses. I remember him taming a very dangerous, high spirited thoroughbred fresh off the track. Bill was the only one who could handle him. One of my fondest boyhood memories was getting to know Wilford Brimley.

Anne Spencer

August 2, 2020

A man of great character and a fantastic actor with a heart.
He gave you that warm, fuzzy feeling of security. He will be missed.
Hoping he will have a happy reunion with his loved ones in heaven.

Patrick Foss

August 2, 2020

Rest in peace, Wilford Brimley. You entertained millions of us through decades of wonderful acting on the big screen and on television. Thank you for 'Absence of Malice' and especially 'The Natural'. My condolences to your family and your friends.

Dick Hay

August 2, 2020

Meet you at the senior rodeo in Reno one time. You invited to come to your place and rope. Nice man.

George Zinn

August 2, 2020

I will remember Wilf best for his foundation for underprivileged which he hosted in SLC a few times, and brought in some of his Hollywood friends such as Bob Duvall. Wilf was also a die-hard Utah Jazz fan and would attend many games until his health wouldn't allow it. He is wrangling horses in heaven.

Maria Lara

August 2, 2020

Rest in Peace

Vincent Limoli

August 2, 2020

A very unique and talented person has joined the angels.The junk that passes for acting nowadays could learn from your wonderful performances. Sleep well.

William Varner

August 2, 2020

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

James Carroll

August 2, 2020

He had a very uniqueness about him you knew that he was genuine in real life as well as acting.

Jill R Richey

August 2, 2020

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. Thanks for all the treasured memories of your talent through the years. Heavenly friends were there to meet such an American treasure. Best wishes to Wilford's family for a great loss in their lives.

August 2, 2020

Beloved, one of a kind character, who lived a courageous and admirable life. Loved his acting, singing, and that "salt of the earth" personality that was so well revealed in interviews.

We will miss you, Wilford. Rest in peace.

Thomas Cover

August 2, 2020

Our prayers and thoughts are with you Tom and Carole cover

CK EMS

August 2, 2020

You were a pioneer to all diabetics to check their blood sugar and check it often. As paramedics we often quoted you to diabetics that were negligent in monitoring their levels. Rest easy genial soul.

Jim Sinclair

August 2, 2020

Mr Brimley, you were inspirational and a great man, you will be missed. Love from Canada

Harry Simpson

August 2, 2020

Godspeed Wilford, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us, and the wonderful, and unforgettable, film and TV memories.

Saepe Expertus, Semper Fidelis, Fratres Aeterni.

Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever.

Thank you for your service to this nation. U.S.Marine Corps.

Kaleigh Fladeland

August 2, 2020

Wilfred was my favorite actor. My dad knew a guy that was able to have him call and talk to me. It was the best day ever. Rest in peace.

Phillip Fleming

August 2, 2020

He was a find actor. I remember liking his work in Absence of Malice, The Firm, and The Natural. He will be missed

Andrea Wolfe

August 2, 2020

A wonderful gentleman I will truly miss. Mr. Brimley always brought a smile to my face and left a positive impact in my heart. Though we did not meet in person, I will always consider ourselves as friends. My condolences and prayers.

August 2, 2020

WB: He had a cameo as Blacksmith in Episode: "One Step to Darkness"; as A. Wilford Brimley of 1975 Kung Fu The series!

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