Carey Brent Nowack

On Wednesday, August 6, 2025, Carey Brent Nowack of Long Beach, CA, loving son, brother, and uncle, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 35. Known to family and friends as “Brent” or “C. Brent,” he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Brent’s loving family was able to be by his side during his final days. The time spent and the stories shared with him will be treasured in their hearts forever.

He is survived by his parents, Carey and Marna Nowack; his sister, Britni Martinez; brother-in-law, Tim Martinez; and his two nieces, Ava and Ella, whom he adored.

Brent was born October 24, 1989, and was raised in Bettendorf, Iowa, graduating in 2008. From high school through college, Brent nurtured a love for theatre and the fine arts. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing and a BFA in Acting from Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri, where he was a member of the Voices Only Choir.

After college, Brent settled in California and established a career as a buyer, most notably working for eight years at Vans, holding several buyer roles across three countries. Brent's Vans family was very special to him, and he was to them. Brent was more than a teammate. He was a leader, a voice and a force. His passion for an inclusive workplace was evident as he became the Founder and Chair of the Vans Pride LGBTQIA Employee Resource Group.

Brent will be remembered as a bright light whose presence warmed every heart and every room. He embraced life with authenticity, inspiring others to do the same. He exemplified resilience, showing that true bravery is found in both strength and vulnerability.

His greatest joy came from family and friends, especially being a devoted “Guncle” to his two beautiful nieces, for whom he would have done anything. Brent also enjoyed being a "Dog Dad" to Bae, a sweet rescue that he loved. Brent’s legacy of courage, authenticity, and genuine kindness will continue to shine through the lives of all who knew him.

Brent's family will remember dancing with him to Michael Jackson's "Man in the Mirror" and will continue to live by the words, "If you want to make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and then make a change."

A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.