Kevin Lynn Briggs

Kevin Lynn Briggs passed away peacefully during the early hours of a beautiful Arizona autumn day, Friday, October 28, 2022, from heart failure at the age of 67.

Kevin was born on March 9, 1955, to Lewis Edward Briggs and June Cook Briggs in Ogden, Utah; he was the youngest of their four sons. 

Kevin was raised on the family farm in Syracuse, Utah. From the example of his parents and siblings, he learned to work from sunrise to sunset and continued this work ethic throughout his schooling and professional careers.

Kevin was educated in Davis County and graduated from Clearfield High School before beginning his higher education at Utah State University, Logan, Utah. While in his undergraduate degree, Kevin helped his fellow students as a Teaching Assistant in the Mathematics Department and as a Research Assistant. Kevin continued his studies at the University of Texas, where his major area of study was Physics, with minor studies in Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, and Operations Research.

In Texas, Kevin was a Research Assistant for the Center for Atmospheric and Space Science, which included electron beam plasma discharge studies at the Johnson Space Center. Then, as Project Engineer at National Semiconductor, Kevin developed testing algorithms and strategies for electrical measurement of oxide quality and improved the high-current implant process to minimize thin-oxide damage. He eventually moved to Arizona where he continued his career at Arizona State University. Kevin settled into retirement as a valued employee at Cortez Coffee Roasters where he developed their first roaster software. His unique research on specialty coffee is still incorporated in every roast they continue to do today.

A few of his hobbies included snow and water-skiing, cycling, shooting, and reloading. He thoroughly enjoyed race cars—from collecting magazines and watching races at home on the TV, to being a spectator in the stands and involved with the NASCAR races in Phoenix.

Throughout life, Kevin maintained his thirst for knowledge and was an avid reader and collector of interests. He was inquisitive and studious. He pursued a lifetime of learning and collected a massive number of books and knowledge through the years. After his passing, a computer program and notepad were found at Kevin’s desk that he’d recently been using to learn how to read, write, and speak the Icelandic language. Kevin’s eagerness to learn was an example to his nieces and nephews, who developed his same love for adventure and education.

Kevin was a cherished uncle to Crisanne, David, Michelle, Dallin and Janette. For many years at Christmas, they would receive a new pair of moccasins from Kevin to replace the last year’s worn ones and giggle in amazement about how he could always remember their foot size.  Although he didn’t always reside in the same state, Kevin made them feel loved and included from afar. They fondly remember gathering around the telephone when he’d call and tell them about his adventures at the racetrack or the various places his job took him. He’d listen attentively in return as each child spoke in detail about what was happening in their own life. When Kevin was able to come in person, he always had a happy smile on his bearded face and a hug for each of them. If they felt they needed anything, Uncle Kevin was there to support and encourage them.

Kevin was a compassionate, intelligent, and honorable man of integrity. He was a positive influence in numerous ways to his nieces and nephews, friends, and in his community. Kevin was a wonderful son and brother, adopted brother by many, devoted cousin, and friend.  He is deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

Kevin is survived by his second mother, Leah Briggs; brothers, John and his wife Donna, Dean and his wife Robyn; and five nieces and nephews.

Kevin was preceded in death by his eldest brother, Richard—whom he deeply missed for 51 years—his caring father, Lewis, and his loving mother, June. With open arms, Kevin was welcomed home to be with them again.

On Saturday, November 19, 2022, at 2:00 p.m., Kevin will be interred at the Syracuse City Cemetery, next to his brother Richard.

As a family, we want to thank all who have supported Kevin and cared for him during the last chapter of his life.

Condolences may be shared at: www.lindquistmortuary.com