SGT Brett Loring Pinkham

1981 - 2011

SGT Brett Loring Pinkham obituary, 1981-2011

SGT Brett Loring Pinkham

1981 - 2011

BORN

1981

DIED

2011

Brett Pinkham Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Sep. 7, 2011.
Turner: SGT Brett L. Pinkham, 30, of Turner died as a result of a motor vehicle accident Sunday, September 4, 2011 in Turner. He was born April 7, 1981 in Farmington a son of Nelson Collins and Susan (Pinkham) Varney. Brett was a graduate of Leavitt Area High School class of 2000. He served in the US Army, serving in S. Korea and Operation Iraqi War Freedom. Brett was a purple heart recipient, being honored with his purple heart November 5, 2010. He served in the Army for 12 years. He enjoyed hunting, target practice, fishing and was an all around outdoorsman. Most of all he enjoyed riding around visiting friends. He was known by all as "My Hero" and will be missed most for his genuineness, his loyalty to his family and friends, his kindness and for his true lovable nature. His smile will be remembered and missed by all. Brett is survived by his parents: Alan and Sue Varney of Turner, his sister Brooke M. Pinkham of Auburn, his father Nelson Collins of Farmington Falls, his Aunt and Uncle Dick and Jane Witham of Phillips, his Uncle Gordon Pinkham of Turner, special cousins: Joseph and Christy Haynes of Strong, as well as many other cousins, and his closest friends: Sam Roy of Turner, Brad Duprey of Turner and Amie Thibodeau of Lewiston; He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Richard and Margaret Pinkham, and Jeanette Varney; and uncles, Jim and Dick Pinkham. Family and friends may offer their condolences to the Pinkham family by visiting www.thefortingroupauburn.com

Visitation will be held 2-4 and 6-8 Sunday September 11, at The Fortin Group/Auburn. A Funeral Service will be held at 11 am Monday September 12, at The East Auburn Baptist Church 560 Park Ave, Auburn. Committal will be held privately. In Lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to DAV/Disabled American Veterans PO Box 14301 Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301 Attn: Gift Processing. Arrangements are under the care of The Fortin Group/Plummer & Merrill Funeral Home, Cremation and Monument Services, 217 Turner St. Auburn, 783-8545

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January 8, 2012

Jennifer Pinkham posted to the memorial.

December 4, 2011

mom varney posted to the memorial.

November 22, 2011

MARK/VICKI RYAN posted to the memorial.

Jennifer Pinkham

January 8, 2012

Brett... I found myself thinking of you today. I was remembering that night you and Aron surprised me by taking me out to Newport and we spent the night dancing our butt's off. I remember your big smile that was so infectious I couldn't help but smile back. I am so happy that you were a part of my life, even though we saw each other only sporadically. It feels good to think of you and feel happiness in my heart, instead of tears on my cheeks. Susan, Alan, and Brooke... it will take time, but some day I have to believe you will be able to do the same. Until then, I hope you know I am always just a phone call away.

Brett... I have done my best to help Aron grieve your loss. I even participated in some Celtic Pagen ritual that is meant to help souls that have passed cross over into heaven. I have no doubt you were already there, probably laughing at how silly we looked... but if it helps him to except the loss of someone he loved so dearly who are we to judge? I hope you agree. I miss ya dude!

Until we meet again - Jennifer

mom varney

December 4, 2011

thank u all for being there for alan,brooke and myself....its hard .our hearts are broken.brett was an amazing young man and was a guy just loved his family friends.i will miss his big smile and bear hugs......i dont know how to move on w/out him in my world...i love u brett foreverrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr...xxoo mom,,x

MARK/VICKI RYAN

November 22, 2011

WE LOVED YOU AS A BABY WE LOVED YOU AS A TEEN WE LOVED YOU AS A GROWN MAN..........YOU WERE OUR SPECIAL BOY ALWAYS EAGER WITH HUGS AND I LOVE YOU WHEN YOU WOULD SEE US....REST IN PEACE YOU WILL REMAIN IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER

Kathleen Fulghum

September 27, 2011

Susan and Alan, please accept my deep and sincere sympathy. Just learned of this terrible loss. Susan, having your help for that short time was a blessing for me. God bless you.

susan varney

September 20, 2011

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Lynn Boldt

September 13, 2011

Sue & Alan,
Our thought's & prayer's are with you & your family.
May the Lord grant you peace & comfort in this difficult time.

Mark Stephens

September 12, 2011

I only knew Brett for a short period,in that short time he made me feel like i knew him for a long time.My prayers go out to all of his family!

Uncle Gordon

September 12, 2011

I am going to miss you greatly,Brett,but your spirit is always among us...That loving spirit that endears.You were a soldier,proud and true...One of the best among us!!!We shall never forget you.

Brett & Dors Calabrese

September 11, 2011

Sue & Alan,
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. There are no words that can really be said to help ease the pain of losing your son. Our deepest condolences to you and your family at this time of loss. May the wonderful memories that you shared together help to heal your pain.

Linda Bauer

September 11, 2011

In Maine, tomorrow, they will bury a hero; my cousin who I met after he died. In all the pictures, posts and stories I have seen since his death I know that Bret Pinkham's life was well lived, and tragically way too short. I know that he made a lot of friends and touched a lot of lives with kindness and generosity; that he was a special young man, a hero who served his country honorably and was awarded the Purple Heart.

Brett�s memorial service is today, 9/11/11, ten years from the day of the murderous attacks on our country. Today we all remember and honor our hero's that died that day, those that saved lives that day and those that fought for us because of that day.

Today I also honor my cousin Brett who sadly I never met; Brett I honor your memory and I lift up your family in prayer; those who grieve for a young well lived life that was lost way too soon. Your cousin Linda

SGT William Hinkley

September 11, 2011

My thoughts and prayers go out to all of Brett's family today, tomorrow and always: The last time I saw Brett was ?3 years ago when I was riding a bus to the BX, at Balad Air Base Iraq. I glanced to the front only to see Brett sitting 2 seats away. What a small world I remember thinking. I quickly moved up to great him. We where both so shocked to see each other. Brett came Balad because he had been a victim of an IED attack, and was receiving medical attention. We spent the afternoon together reminiscing of the good old days, and talking of our time in the service. As I said goodbye I could not help but laugh. Whats the chances? Some random day, on a random bus in Iraq I run into Brett Pinkham... wowzers! In fact I cant help but smile now thinking of it. I never saw Brett again, and it saddens me to know I never will.... RIP Brett Pinkham you will remain in my thoughts forever.

Lori Marschall

September 10, 2011

Sue & Family my thoughts and prayers are of your family. When I think of Brett I always remember the many years of baseball with Nick at BQMC. I will never forget his first great hit and him making it to first base...Sue you jumped for joy as if it was a grand slam. Brett looked at you with the biggest smile. You were his biggest supporter and driving force in baseball and life. His smile filled the room the moment he walked in. God bless your family.

September 10, 2011

Brett, there are no words to describe how shocked I am. You were there to hold my hand through some of the darkest times a female can go through. Even though we were from neighboring towns God introduced us in Korea, a foriegn land for us. You were one of the best men and brothers I could have served with. we lost touch when i deployed but I remember your hug when we ran into each other at jonny's party last year!!! I'll never forget our meatball fights and I will never forget your smile or encouraging words. I know we all come back different but just remember "bub" you are in a heavenly place with no more wars!! I love you Brett and you will forever hold a place in heart and forever leave a footprint on my soul.

Denise Fast

September 9, 2011

Sue, Brooke, and Family: I'm so sorry for your loss. Although I didn't know Brett as an adult, I remember him as a fun, energetic little boy. May you find comfort in the many wonderful memories.

Jan Bierer (Crocker)

September 9, 2011

Susan and family, So very sorry to hear of your loss. I remember Brett as such a darling little boy. My thoughts and prayers are with you...

Meg Gourley

September 9, 2011

I am devastated by this senseless tragedy. My fondest memory of Brett is when he was 12, we were coming down from Phillips Beanhole event and we had Brett with us, and he wanted to stop by a beautiful field in full bloom with field flowers, and just run around in it. And I did that with him. It was a beautiful moment. My kids will remember him and his beautiful spirit, too. I'm grateful they had some time together. He was adored by all.

Zelda Coffren

September 9, 2011

Sorry very sorry for you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

Tom Crosby

September 9, 2011

Brooke, I am so saddened to learn of your brother's passing. May the kindness and compassion you so generously give to others be returned to you a thousand-fold and sustain you and your family through this difficult time. God bless you.

Dawn Nash

September 8, 2011

Dear Suzy, Alan and Brookie:
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. We love you guys--Steve, Dawn and Doug

jennifer barham

September 8, 2011

brett was so very special. i will miss him always. my fondest memory will always be of him telling me that he was going to teach zach how to fish and hunt. he will always be in our hearts and prayers.

September 8, 2011

Sue, I am so sorry for your loss,I didnt know Brett, but I have known you for a long time and I wish there was a way to comfortyou thru this tragic time,You and your family are in my heart and prayers.

heather day

September 8, 2011

My thoughts are with you and your family at your time of loss. May Bret RIP. Bret will be forever remembered

everett carter

September 8, 2011

norma and everett carter have been friends with brett ever since he was a kid.he use to come down and visit us alot .we really got to love him.when he had his furlough ,he came down and told us how proud he was .our prayers go to all his family.

dawn coolong

September 8, 2011

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

susan varney

September 8, 2011

brett, brettie boo,bojo,boo.the names i had for u .i miss u so must,i cant understand ill never c my baby again.u were the son i dreamed of havin,sweet,loyal.funny,quiet,handsome.u are my here sgt brett l. pinkham,rip i hope u have no more pain,give me a sign u are in heaven,i know u are,pops is broken.his only true loyal son.he loves u ,proud of u and all u did .,in the army for defendin us and usa.....u were good at what u did.i guess ur 2 parents did ok raisin u huh??????lol,lol love,mom,pops..xxoo

September 8, 2011

Thinking of you Susan and your family as you try to move on from this terrible tragedy, hoping you can find some peace in the many memories you have of you son,he will live on in your heart forever, praying for you, stay strong my friend....

Andrea Lavertu

September 8, 2011

Brett, you were a special child and you grew into a special man. Oh my God, that smile would melt anyone's heart. I am very thankful to have hugged you again. I won't forget how that felt. Rest little one. You will always hold a special place in my heart. I keep your picture on top of my TV, I promise I will never take it down. You truly made life interesting when I babysat you as a little boy. No one can take those memories away. Thank you for all you did for us, and our country. You're a brave Soldier. I know you're up there with your head held high. I Love you, always have. Thanks for the memories. Sue, Alan and Brooke, my heart breaks for you. Please let me know if I can do anything ANY time.

Nancy Barry

September 8, 2011

Brett will be very missed on Pearl Rd. We have such fond memories of his frequent visits to our home during high school days. We were proud to be able to say we knew Brett during his military career. And, so happy to see Sam and he resume their every day friendship when Brett returned to Turner.

Brooke, your strength is amazing. Arnie remembers you fondly from when you cared for his mother when she passed at CM.

When you called early Sunday morning you showed your strength again. With all your worry, you dealt with me being so confused since wakened (which was NO issue for me.) Very glad you were able to track down Sam.

Brett will always be dear to our hearts. Prayers for Brett and your family started at 5am Sunday and continue daily.

Nancy Barry & Arnie Roy (Sam's Dad)

Melanie Chabot

September 8, 2011

Brooke, Sue, Alan and family-
My heart breaks for you all. I send you all my love and hugs. May you find strength in this time. Love and lean on each other. I'll always remember the fun and silly times. Wishing you wonderful memories, the world, the moon, and peace. Love, Melanie

Del & Marnie Voter

September 8, 2011

Sue and family, We are asking the Lord to bathe you all in His peace that goes beyond all understanding. We are grateful that Brett answered his country's call to serve and protect us all. This tragedy is beyond comprehension but we know that Brett is in a place where there are no more wars, a place where no one ever dies and that he is whole, body, mind and soul. God Bless Brett. Sincere condolences.

Dorothy Metivier

September 8, 2011

September 8, 2011
Dear Alan and Sue,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this very difficult time. May you gain strenghth thur your memories ,with family and friends.
George and Dottie (Herrick) Metivier

Erin Bishop

September 8, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. I knew Brett from school and he always had a smile on his face. I've run into him a lot in the community and I admired his positive attitude. He will be missed by many.

Sasha Doughty

September 8, 2011

Brett, My heart breaks every time I think about the fact that I will never get to see you again. I promised you that lunch and never made it happen.

Alan, Sue and Brooke, In these difficult times I hope that the love and support of family and friends is helping you get though. If there is anything I can do, please don't hesitate to ask. I am available.

With Much Love,

Melanie Wentworth

September 8, 2011

So very sorry for the loss of your son. My heart breaks for any parent that has to endure the loss of their child. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time.

September 8, 2011

Susan and Family
There are no words....I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Laurie Allen Draper

Dwan Dube

September 8, 2011

My deepest sympathies to your entire family...Brooke, I am thinking of all of you and have great memories of Brett as kids. I hope you find peace when you think of all the wonderful memories you have together. Lots of love and strength

September 7, 2011

Brett, I wish I had been able to meet you but living so far away made it difficult... I will miss you

Long lost cousin Lynn

Dana & Katherine Guimond

September 7, 2011

Sue and Alan,So sorry for your loss. Our hearts and prayers are with you in this time of sorrow. Look back and cherish all the memories that you have

Jennifer Pinkham

September 7, 2011

Sue & Alan: I am at a loss for words because I can't even begin to imagine the pain of losing a child. My heart aches for all of you affected by this tragedy. Aron called me on Sunday to break the news and he is absolutely devastated. I am doing my best to be able to bring him to the funeral. I am sure Aron won't mind me speaking for him.... He looked at Brett as not only a cousin, but a friend, confidant, and role model. He could barely get the words out last I talked to him. He is grieving a great man. Aron may soon be my ex-husband, but he will always be my best friend and I will always be there for the tough times, as long as he wants me to be.

Sue: I have never met a mother more devoted to her children. You are a wonderful, supportive mother to both your children. Although your time with Brett has been cut short, I can promise you he recognized what a special mother he was blessed with, and I hope someday you can look upon the time you had together as a blessing regardless of the fact that his time on this Earth was cut short. The same goes for Alan as well.

Please pass on my condolences to Gordon. He loved Brett as much as he loved his own.

If there is anything at all I can do to make this difficult time even a tiny bit easier on you, do not hesitate to ask.

I love you all, and again I am sorry for your loss.

Leavitt Winter Carnival 1999

Victoria Purcell

September 7, 2011

My thoughts and prayers to the Varney's and Pinkham's. The memories I have of Brett throughout middle and high school and all the fun times we shared I will carry in my heart forever!

Polly Bussiere

September 7, 2011

Sue, Alan and family, Sorry about your loss. You had a great son with a very big heart. He will be sadly missed and remembered everyday for friendship,love and courage! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Frances Carver-(Tobey)

September 7, 2011

Dear Sue and Alan,
I am so very sorry to hear about your son's untimely passing. You have my deepest sympathy.

tammy ray

September 7, 2011

im so sorry for you lost.I know him for the big apple in turner where i work. could always count on him coming. my thoughts and prays are with the whole family.

Valerie Jackson

September 7, 2011

I am shocked and deeply saddened to learn this news. Sue and Brooke please know that you both are in my thoughts and prayers. Brett will be remembered forever by me as the sweet (and hyper!) little boy I used to babysit.

Sharron Boyd

September 7, 2011

Sue and Alan...my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. May you gain strength thru your memories, family, and friends.

Randy and Tammy (Jordan) McNear

September 7, 2011

Alan and Sue:

Sorry to hear about the tragic loss of your son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.

Melissa Nickey

September 7, 2011

I only knew you for a short amount of time... But I have some good memories of you!! Especially at our New Years Eve party, You were carring around your bottle of Captian Morgans Single barrell, trying to get everyone to have a shot!! And the last memory I have was on Friday, We sit at the kitchen table and had a few beers!! You were a great guy, and Im glad I got the chance you meet you!!! May you rest in peace!!

Melissa MacDonald

September 7, 2011

I am still lost for words on this tragic accident. My thoughts and prayers are with his close friends and family. I can not imagine what you are going through as I have not really seen Brett since graduating high school and I am extremely saddened on the news. It is very hard to lose classmates as we are all still so young. Driving down Center Bridge Road will never be the same. May you rest in peace Brett and thank you for serving our country. You were a true Hero! (LAHS 2000 Classmate)

Susan Stevens-Paige

September 7, 2011

I am so sorry to have learned of Brett's untimely passing. I remember Brett as being so out-going and just a happy-go-lucky kid. He turned into the same type of man and the world will be a little dimmer from now on without him in it. Your family is and will be in my thoughts. Susan Stevens Paige

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January 8, 2012

Jennifer Pinkham posted to the memorial.

December 4, 2011

mom varney posted to the memorial.

November 22, 2011

MARK/VICKI RYAN posted to the memorial.