Brian Metsker

Brian Joseph Metsker, aged 53, was called home to Christ on October 15, 2024 in Durango, Colorado. Brian was born on September 11, 1971 in Tipton, Indiana to William J Metsker and Lucinda “Cindy” (Swaim Metsker) Ison. On February 14, 1999, Brian married Shannon (Campbell) Metkser in Loveland Pass, Colorado and she survives.  

Brian graduated from Kokomo High School and went on to attend and graduate from Vincennes University where he majored in graphic design and arts. He was an excellent artist, winning second place in a competition to design a new Indiana State Police logo. Brian was also a member of the West Street Christian Church in Tipton, Indiana. A man of deep faith, Brian had accepted Christ and affirmed his faith through baptism.  

An avid cyclist, Brian won many awards and was even a sponsored racer for Team Indiana. His time spent racing would lead to an enduring friendship with Ryan Valdez. Ever one to immerse himself fully in his interests, Brian found employment at the Victory Bicycle Shop where he learned many useful skills that would serve him well on his rides. Cycling was a passion for Brian and he was joined on many ventures by his friends Paul Sladinski and Larry Barnett. 

Brian had a particular interest in the native peoples of southwestern Colorado and would read all he could of their histories and stories. His soul would be drawn westward and he followed, moving to Boulder, Colorado before settling in Telluride. There, Brian would be awarded with the “Outstanding Volunteer Award” for his time spent mentoring disabled children and veterans on how to snowboard while also working as a certified snowboarding instructor. He eventually moved to Durango where he could surround himself with the mountainous biome he loved so dear. Bringing his skills to this terrain, he took up mountain biking and kayaking so that he may appreciate nature’s beauty from so many new perspectives.  

Music was another passion of Brian, with his favorite band being Widespread Panic. Brain was sure to never miss a live show whenever and wherever he could! 

Brian was preceded in death by his father William, uncles Edward Swaim, Jack Plake, and Bob Strong, and cousins Barry and Tony Plake. Aside from his wife, he is also survived by his mother and step-father Cindy and Ted Ison; brother Patrick and wife Jennifer Metsker; aunt Cassandra Plake and many more cousins, nieces and nephews. 

Young-Nichols Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with his arrangements. A memorial service is planned for 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 2 at Young-Nichols Funeral Home with Rev. Mark Anderson presiding. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made in Brian’s memory to assist with the cost of his services. Condolences for Brian’s family may be left on his obituary page at www.young-nichols.com.