Brian Scott Buckholtz

Brian Scott Buckholtz, lovingly known as “Papa” or “Senior”, 61, passed away on September 28, 2025, at his home in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Born on February 17, 1964, in Sayre, Pennsylvania, Brian lived a vibrant life full of laughter, love, and unwavering dedication to his family and career.

Raised in the Catholic faith, Brian served as an altar boy in his parish and attended Purcell Parochial High School in Cincinnati, Ohio. In recent years, he occasionally worshipped with his family at a local nondenominational church, continuing to nurture his spiritual foundation.

Brian’s journey in the hospitality industry began early—at just 11 years old—as a golf caddie. That first job sparked a lifelong passion for service and connection. In his youth, he became a hotshot bartender- mixing drinks in both South Florida, and Southern California- where he was well known for his charm, charisma, and quick wit behind the bar. His love for people and good times eventually led him to open his own establishment, “The Clubhouse,” a beloved Pub and Grill in San Diego, California. It was there his hospitality truly flourished, and he met the mother of his children.

In 2002, Brian transitioned into food and beverage management and took on various leadership roles throughout the years, while continuing to serve his guests with enthusiasm. His final professional chapter was with SSP America at the Spokane Airport. Whether greeting travelers, or mentoring employees, Brian led with integrity and heart. He believed in leading by example—never asking anyone to do something he wouldn’t do himself—and had an uncanny ability to motivate those around him. His colleagues remember him not only as a manager but as a friend who brought energy, and humor into every room.

Brian was known for his encyclopedic knowledge of sports trivia and music—he could name the band behind every song on the jukebox without hesitation. A diehard San Diego Chargers fan through thick and thin, he proudly celebrated their 3–0 start this season. Fittingly—or perhaps cosmically—the team suffered their first loss on the day of his passing. It’s easy to imagine they felt the absence of their biggest fan.

Outside of work, Brian found joy in traveling, golfing, and attending sporting events with his children, and granddaughter, Londynn. He was always young at heart—his signature look was a Hawaiian shirt paired with flip-flops—and he never missed a chance to cruise with the top down in his cherished BMW convertible. In quieter moments, he enjoyed playing Fortnite and would playfully boast each time he earned a Victory Royale.

Above all else, Brian’s greatest joy was being a father to Gabriella, Gianni, Brian, Braiden, and Stella. He embraced fatherhood with boundless love and devotion—whether it was waking up early for sports practices or warming towels in the dryer after bath time. From Starbucks runs before school to preparing roll-up eggs or fluffy pancakes for dinner, every moment spent with his children was cherished. He wasn’t afraid to attend a dainty tea party with his little girl or belt out Disney songs during family movie nights. He was the BEST papa and friend to each of his children.

His sense of fun extended to evenings spent watching Disney theme park videos and YouTube bloopers with his special Sissy- moments filled with shared laughter, connection, and (sometimes) sideways looks from mom… Shopping trips with “little” Brian brought him great delight; he admired his son’s fashion sense and eye for luxury, and they often coordinated styles. They were an inseparable duo.

Park days spent with Braiden, Payten, and Londynn held a special place in Brian’s heart—he beamed with pride watching his son embrace fatherhood with love and tender care. Brian’s lively spirit shone through in moments like making midnight Eggs Benny for Gabriella and Gianni or teaching them how to do donuts in an icy parking lot—moments that captured both his playful mischief and deep affection for his girls.

He will be missed for each and every wonderful moment he shared with us, his family.

He was affectionately known as a “Disney Dad”, cherishing family vacations to Disney World and cozy nights watching animated classics together. Christmas held special magic for him; he often kept the tree up long past December just to preserve its wonder. He loved wrapping gifts for his children, and seeing their delight when they opened them!

Brian’s humor was legendary—he had an infectious laugh and a gift for lightening any moment with just the right words. Whether cracking jokes or offering heartfelt advice, he made everyone feel seen and valued.

He is preceded in death by William Paul Buckholtz, his cherished father.

Although our Papa has departed this earth physically, we are comforted by the belief that his spirit now dwells in the house of the Lord forever. His legacy lives on through every smile he inspired and every life he touched.

May Brian’s memory bring comfort to those who knew him—and may we all carry forward his joy for life, love for family, and unwavering kindness toward others. A Graveside Service will be held on October 6, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM at Riverview Cemetery 1065 North Lincoln Way