Search by Name

Search by Name

Brian McMahon Obituary

60, Appleton, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, December 13, 2012 at his home. He was born on July 31, 1952 in Owatonna, MN to the late Irwin and Alice (McDonnell) McMahon. Brian graduated from St. Cloud State University and the University of Oshkosh. He taught elementary education for 35 years in the Appleton Area School District at Janet Berry, Houdini and Johnston Elementary Schools. He wed Jean DeCoster on June 25, 1982 in Neenah. Brian loved home improvements, gardening, painting and photography. In addition to being a longtime teacher and mentor to many, he never lost interest in learning more about the world and its people through travel. Upon retiring in 2010, he continued to teach as an AASD sub and a volunteer tutor of English as a second language. He felt strongly that everyone he met had something to offer and found great joy in bringing that out.

He will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 30 years, Jean of Appleton; son, Jon McMahon of L.A.; brothers: Pat (Trudy), Bob, Dan (Cherie), John and Phil (Cyndy); a sister, Joanne (Jim) Pichner; two sisters-in-law: Karen (Jim) Wilkinson and Kay (Greg) Heindel; numerous nieces and nephews, colleagues and friends.

A Mass of Resurrection for Brian will be held at 10:30 am, Thursday, Dec. 20, 2012 at St. Mary Catholic Church (312 S. State St.) in Appleton with Rev. James Leary OFM Cap. officiating. Friends may visit the family Wednesday at Brettschneider Trettin-Nickel Funeral Chapel from 5 - 7 pm with a prayer service at 7 pm. There will also be visitation at the church Thursday morning from 9:00 am until the time of mass.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Appleton Post-Crescent on Dec. 16, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Brian McMahon

Not sure what to say?





February 28, 2013

Deepest sympathies

December 28, 2012

We just returned from Europe and were so saddened by the news! Brian was a wonderful teacher and will always be with us and especially our daughter! He was truly a very special person and his legacy with live on in all the students and parents he touched!
Our sincerest sympathy
Dr. and Mrs. Anderson

Shellie Springborn

December 20, 2012

I was in Mr. McMahon's second grade class the year that his son was born. I vividly remember coming back from specials and being informed that he was at the hospital with his wife. When he returned, he was the happiest man I have ever seen. His family so clearly meant the world to him. There was also the day that he mentioned his name was Brian, and I couldn't believe my ears, because all along I was so sure that his first name was Mister. He truly made teaching look easy and fun every single day. It wasn't until I became a teacher myself that I learned to appreciate that about him, and it continues to inspire me. His passion for education and for life was evident to all of us who were lucky enough to be one of his students, and he will be greatly missed.

The Bocik Family

December 20, 2012

Mr. McMahon was one of a kind! He was a wonderful teacher and always greeted everyone with a smile. We will miss seeing him at Saturday mass, but know he will always be with us. To the McMahon family: We all share in this loss with you. Our deepest sympathy.

John Gosling

December 20, 2012

We really are grateful for ALL the positive contributions Brian made personally and professionally! He DID improve life and we are better because of him.

Jane/Kevin Reichardt

December 19, 2012

Mr. McMahon was a beloved teacher to my three children: Rachel, Brady, and Olivia Reichardt. He was inspirational and will forever be remembered as a "favorite" teacher. Olivia (11) found postcards that Mr. McMahon sent her and held them as she cried when she learned that he had passed away. He was a great man.

Darrell Yunk

December 18, 2012

The impact that a teacher can have on one's life is amazing. I was reflecting on all of the wonderful teachers I had when I was younger just the other day. I was shocked when I heard today that Brian had passed. It must be about 32 years since Brian was my 3rd grade teacher and I can still remember the kindness and humor he displayed. He truly was one of my favorite teachers. My prayers go out to his family.

mary ann steinfeldt

December 18, 2012

Dear Jean, my heart goes out to you and the family. Brian was such an angel . There are no words to express my sorrow for you at this time, you are in my prayers.

The Driessen Family

December 17, 2012

You will be missed Mr. McMahon. What a wonderful educator who saw the potential in our child and helped her over the hurdles along the way!

Swoboda's

December 17, 2012

Brian will be missed by so many. Truly an amazing teacher and a caring person. Our thoughts and prayers are with all his family and friends during this difficult time.

December 17, 2012

RIP Mr. McMahon you will be missed by everyone

Jeff Carpenter

December 17, 2012

Brian's gears in his head were always turning as to how we could use this or that to benefit his students. I had the pleasure of teaching Brian technology applications when I was a media specialist at Johnston teaching through staff development. He really loved his wife (Jean) and son (John).

Brad Garrity

December 17, 2012

Mr. Mc Mahon was my first teacher at Johnston in 1985-86 after our family had moved. He was so warm and caring, a dedicated educator who made us care about learning as well as about each other. We watched the tragic Challenger flight in his class in January 1986, and to this day I remember how calming and reassuring he was as he answered our questions as best he could that difficult day. He reached out to me when I was working with AASD and I am thankful for his guidance and inspiration when I was a kid and throughout my life. There are so many of us who are better parents, neighbors, friends...simply better people because of Mr. Mc Mahon.

December 17, 2012

I was very sorry to hear about Brian. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers

Kris Schroeder

December 17, 2012

Brian McMahon was a very special educator. My children were blessed to know him and our daughter Cassie has many fond memories of her 3rd grade teacher. With sympathy,
Jay and Kris Schroeder

Beth and Ted VerKuilen Family

December 17, 2012

Mr. McMahon deeply touched all three of our children at Janet Berry. He was a very kind and patient teacher, knew how to build on each child's strenths and was an excellent role model. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and son, whom he often spoke of with love.

Katie Erstad (Karbon)

December 17, 2012

Mr. McMahon is the definition of an inspirational teacher, family man, and all around good guy. He was genuine in all that he did. I was blessed to be a former student of his. My prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.

Barb Blahnik/Grosskreutz

December 17, 2012

I remember Mr. McMahon from Johnston Elem many years ago. He was an amazing person !! So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family

Joshua

December 17, 2012

Mr. Mcmahon left me with good memories of grade school. He worked so hard making our classroom always interesting. He thanked me for being excited about all the new things he would put up around our classroom. He made learning fun and he always took time to make sure I understood the school work even if it took him a couple times to explain things to me.

Chris & John Walter

December 17, 2012

My prayers to Jean, Jon and family. My son, Travis also had Mr. McMahon at Johnston School, as a teacher. We loved him dearly! He will be greatly missed by all. Just saw Brian and Jean in church a few weeks ago. The Lord be with you Brian. Help the Lord take care of all the little children that are there with you. God Bless.

Matthew Bent

December 17, 2012

I had Mr. McMahon many years ago at Johnston and he was such a great teacher and great man! I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

Deb John

December 17, 2012

We are saddened by the loss of an amazing mentor. He gave with his heart and our family is forever grateful for the inspiration he gave our son, Riley. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, and we are sharing the burden of this great grief. May God bless you. May God bless Mr. McMahon's soul. With deepest sympathy, Willy, Debbi and Riley John

Steve and Gretchen Ikkala

December 17, 2012

Brian McMahon was one of Michelle and Shawn's favorite teachers. We talked about some of their memories in 3rd grade; the Japan lesson and how he had the most beautiful writing and perfect penmanship on the board every day. He was a very wonderful man and teacher and will be truly missed by a lot of people. Such sad news! Prayers to all of you.

Bob and Linda Hale and family

December 16, 2012

We are deeply saddened by the loss of a wonderful man and such a kind,caring, devoted teacher. God bless, our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Julia Simo

December 16, 2012

Mr. McMahon was my favorite teacher. I remember when we "flew" to Japan to learn about the culture. I also remember the songs he would sing to get us to learn a certain pattern in words or something. I was shocked to hear this- he was such a great person and teacher.

Jenna Simo

December 16, 2012

Mr. McMahon was my favorite teacher! He taught me so many great things! I remember how he wold always sing "The second story window song," and pretend that there was a trap door under his desk. He will be missed by my family dearly! Rest in peace Mr. McMahon.

December 16, 2012

All three of my daughters, Sarah, Melissa and Hannah had Brian for their teacher at Janet Berry, and he made a lasting impression on all of them. He taught them self-worth, and that education is a key. All three of my daughters have attended college (the oldest is a teacher). My hat's of to this great man. The world lost a very good person.

Jaxson Lamb

December 16, 2012

Having Mr. Mcmahon as a third grade teacher was the best part of my life as a third grader. He was kind and fun and he always believed in everyone. He always knew there was something special about me. He will always be the best teacher in the whole universe and no one can deny that. Farewell Mr. Mcmahon. I will never forget you.

Sara Scherer

December 16, 2012

I had the privilege of doing my student teaching with Brian 15 years ago. His passion for his students and love for his wife and son were so very clear. My life is better because of what he taught me. Brian will be missed. My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to his family.

Bill, Cindy, Curtis & David Veit

December 16, 2012

Brian was a wonderful neighbor & friend. God bless the entire family.

December 16, 2012

Sympathy to you and your family. Always a kind word and smile whenever we seen him. You are in our prayers.

Becky and Nina Payne

December 16, 2012

Mr.McMahon will be greatly missed by our family.

Jodi Rich Billy Bobby Libby Meyer

December 16, 2012

My family and I are so saddened at the passing of Brian, our thoughts are with Jean, Jon and all extended
family. He touch our lives and our 3 children will be ever changed because of his
compassionate nature, love of
teaching & sheer joy of life.
Janet Berry families we're
blessed with one of Gods gifts
Mr.McMahon.
Blessing & Peace

December 16, 2012

I had Mr. McMahon as a 3rd grade teacher about 12 years ago and I can still say that he was one of my favorite teachers I ever had.

Staci Roskom

December 16, 2012

I was so saddened to hear this tragic news. Mr. McMahon was a favorite teacher of both of my girls when they were at Janet Berry. It was always nice to see Mr. McMahon walking through the neighborhoods during the summer, and of course he always greeted you with a kind wave. Heaven needed an awesome teacher, but I'm so sorry to the McMahon family for this loss.

JoAnn Dercks

December 16, 2012

We are greatly saddened to hear of your loss. JoAnn and Mary Ann Dercks

December 16, 2012

Mr.McMahon was my son's third grade teacher at Houdini. My son loved and admired him. God bless family and friends. Our prayers are with you.

Maggie Streed (Green Bay)

Paula Morgen

December 16, 2012

Brian was one of my kids' alltime favorite teachers. A wonderful man. So sad to not have him mong us any longer!

Bob & Marilyn Pintarelli

December 16, 2012

We are deeply saddened by the loss of such a wonderful man. He was such a kind and loving teacher. There is no doubt in my mind that Brian was in heaven to welcome the students that were taken from us on Friday. God bless and you are always in our thoughts and prayers.

Showing 1 - 39 of 39 results

Make a Donation
in Brian McMahon's name

Memorial Events
for Brian McMahon

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Brian's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Brian McMahon's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more