Brian Wai Lin

Brian Wai Lin 7/20/1978 – 6/15/2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Brian Wai Lin, age 46, who left us peacefully on 6/15/2025, in Santa Clara, California, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted father, a compassionate healer, and a cherished member of the community, Brian Wai Lin's absence leaves an immeasurable void in the lives of all who knew him.

Born on 7/20/1978 in Boston, Massachusetts, to Mike Wai Lin and Estelle Adrienne Lagacé, Brian showed an early aptitude for both intellectual pursuits and a deep, innate kindness. After graduating from Acalanes High School and UC San Diego, he pursued his calling to medicine, earning his medical degree from Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. He then dedicated his career to serving on the front lines of healthcare as an Emergency Room physician and as a medical educator, developing and running the KLIC Program at Kaiser in San Francisco.

Throughout his 20 years of service, Dr. Lin was a remarkably steady and calming presence in the fast paced emergency rooms of Stanford University School of Medicine and later at Kaiser Permanente in San Francisco and San Rafael. Colleagues and patients alike remember him not only for his sharp medical mind and decisive action, but also for his deep compassion and ability to connect with people in their most vulnerable moments. He treated every patient with dignity, offering comfort and reassurance alongside expert medical care.

For Dr. Lin, healing was more than a profession - it was a calling and a service to humanity. His dedication extended beyond the shift, as he was deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of physicians. In addition to treating patients, he shared his knowledge and experience with medical students, earning the Teaching Award for Excellence in Undergraduate and Graduate Medical Education. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, both in the hospital and in the classroom.

Beyond his demanding professional life, Brian's greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted father to his three cherished children, Isaiah (age 13), Elliot (age 10), and Daphne (age 5). He poured his heart into fatherhood, whether it was cheering them on at their soccer games, helping with science projects, or simply making them laugh with his dry wit. His love for his family was boundless, and he instilled in his children a strong sense of kindness, curiosity and integrity.

Brian was also a cherished member of the Terra Linda community. He opened his home to friends and neighbors, hosted countless gatherings, and helped establish the Kettle Monkeys at Monk's Kettle. Recently, he was initiated into the Elks Lodge of San Rafael, further reflecting his commitment to the community. Brian believed in building connections, nurturing friendships, and enriching the well being of those around him - always with a humble spirit and a warm, ready smile. In his rare moments of free time, he enjoyed playing the ukulele, exploring the local trails by hiking with his dog and children, and biking.

Brian Wai Lin will be remembered for his incredible strength, his quiet resilience, his quick wit, and his profound capacity for love and empathy. He leaves behind a legacy of selfless service, unwavering family devotion, and a community deeply touched by his generosity and warmth.

He is survived by his children, Isaiah, Elliot, and Daphne; his parents, Mike and Estelle; his partner, Carol; his siblings, Kyle (Josephine), Steven (Mon Twe Tar), and Natalie; his stepmom, Rosie; his stepsisters, Anthea (Kyle), Becky (Billy) and Cindy (Kenton); his adopted brother, Tanun "Tai" (Wii), and a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, colleagues, and dear friends.

A family-only memorial service will be held on June 28, 2025, at 9 AM at Valley Memorial Park.

A celebration of Brian Wai Lin's life will be held on June 29, 2025 at 10 AM at The Monk's Kettle Terra Linda. All who knew and loved him are invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Brian's trust, which will directly benefit his children. Please find donation information below. QR codes are available in the photo album below as well.

Zelle:

bwlin720@gmail.com

(415) 297-3422

Venmo:

Brian Lin

@bwlin720