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Brandon Thomas Obituary
January 23, 1992 - May 29, 2012
Brandon Thomas, age 20 of Renton, Wash., left us on May 29, 2012. Brandon was a compassionate son, brother, and friend to all. His passions were running, music, and spending time with his friends and family.
A memorial service will be held to celebrate Brandon's life on Saturday, June 9th, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at New Life Church, 15711 152nd Ave. SE, Renton, Wash., 98058. The family requests donations in lieu of flowers be directed to any Key Bank location in c/o Brandon Thomas Memorial Fund. The family appreciates the love and support during this difficult time.
Brandon is survived by his parents, Steve and Dawn Thomas, his twin brother, Devin, his maternal grandparents, Leslie Reilly and Harvey Haigh, and his paternal grandparents, Del and Georgia Thomas.
Postings may be made to www.greenwoodmempark.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Brandon Thomas
Julie Shipley
July 16, 2012
I only read recently about your son. Our hearts are broken with yours. We lost our 19 year old son, John, on June 9, 2012. He committed suicide by jumping off the roof of our house. His 17 year old brother found him. Our world stopped turning that day. We just want you to know that we share in your pain and you are in our prayers and thoughts. I hope I have not offended you by contacting you. I just feel a need to be in touch with others who have the same experience.
Warren Merritt
July 13, 2012
Steve and Dawn,
Thanks for sharing this story. It will undoubtably help others.
Warren
Post Falls, ID
K. P.
July 12, 2012
What a tragic loss for our world, to lose such a bright, kind, sweet soul who had so much to contribute. I'm the mother of a 21 yr old son who suffers from a related condition - and there are simply no words to describe the fear that he could give up, feel he can't win his battle, or see that there is hope. I could not find a contact address for the Thomas family - but wanted to share with you that hope might be found in a treatment called neurofeedback therapy. Please - if you are reading this, and suffer from this - or any anxiety-related condition (and a whole host of other brain disorders that are very treatable) - look up Brain Paint Neurofeedback for an explanation. This is the newest program available, and my son is embarking on this treatment now. It is worth a try if you are suffering - it is non-invasive, safe, and effective for many people. God bless Brandon & his family. He will be remembered and his loss is felt even by strangers.
sherry milhon
July 11, 2012
My thoughts are with the Thomas family. I will do my part in seeing that your sons, brothers and friends loss is not in vain. Love to you and i wish you healthy healing.
Meegan Haney
July 11, 2012
Thank you for sharing your sons story with the world. I'm so sorry for your loss. May the life he lived bring memories of comfort.
dominic haro
July 11, 2012
i just read your son's story on msnbc.com and my heart breaks for brandon,you and your family.may god bless you in your time of loss.
Mike Goldenkranz
July 11, 2012
Dear Steve, Dawn and Devin
I read with heartache about Brandon, and felt awful for all of you, and wanted to let you know that your
efforts, on behalf of your son, will not go unheeded. I did not know your son or family.
I have a son who suffers from depression (also did well in school and extracurricular and has a good job) but just this week
I got a call saying "I can't keep doing this' and realized I may have to hop on a plane now and had to make sure he was plugged into help and support.
It sounds like you really tried to provide the help and resources that would help, and his remarks to you about
'mom you don't get it' (when first talking about problems with blushing) really 'hit home', cause we obviously
'can't always get what they're experiencing' yet do did what you can to help.
Maybe there was alot more going on - but this is the piece that he asked you to make public and go forward with.
I can't imagine the pain and heart ache that you feel right now as a family. My daughter went to UW, my late in-laws
lived in Lakeridge, near you. Guess I feel a connection and wanted to let you know you're message and request has gotten out there.
Mike Goldenkranz
Seattle
June 11, 2012
I did not know your son, Brandon. I 'm a high school friend of Lesile's. Please accept my condolences for your loss and prayers for God's comfort and peace for and your family during this difficult time.
Christine Kozlow
June 10, 2012
Dear Family of Brandon,
My great-nephew and pod mate of Brandon's shared the memorial program with us. You were blessed by a wonderful son. Our prayers are with you all as you journey forth.
Mike and Janet Parks.
John Baxter
June 10, 2012
Steve, Dawn and Devin, Your family has been in our thoughts and prayers everyday since your tragic loss. I don't have the words, I'm sure nobody does, to express our sympathy. I just have no way to imagine what you're going through. Just know that you have friends that would do anything for you guys and I admire your strength and courage in bringing Brandons story to light in the hope of helping others. John and Laura Baxter
June 9, 2012
Dear Thomas family -
What a powerful thing you have done in Brandon's honor.
Thank you for sharing your son's story.
Tobie Halpin - Renton ( Mom of Liberty High School student)
Maria Pasiak
June 9, 2012
God bless you Dawn Steve and Devin! Preying for you and your beautiful son brother !
Mary Jo Haberman
June 9, 2012
We are so very sorry for your tremendous loss. It is heart-breaking beyond words. Brandon was sweet and precious, he will not be forgotten. Thoughts and prayers are with you. Love, Mary Jo, Scott and Jay Haberman
Ken Vensel
June 8, 2012
Steve, Dawn & Devin, We wanted to say how very sorry we are to hear of the loss of your boy, Brandon. I have nothing but pleasant memories of the Thomas twins as youngsters in Cub Scouts or cheering Brandon on during the Liberty track meets during those long races. Take care & know that you are in our thoughts, Ken Vensel & Mary Pat Maher
June 8, 2012
May God comfort your souls. I suffer from chronic blushing myself and I understand how it feels like to live with this condition. D, NC
Deanna Bork
June 8, 2012
As a parent of college age students as well, my heart went out to you immediately as I heard the story. Then to learn further of Brandons story, having my youngest son battling depression and societal issues and anxiety I can relate even more. God bless you and your family!
Olive Austin
June 8, 2012
Steve, Dawn & Devin and the rest of Brandon's family.
I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful son, brother and grandson.
I hurt inside for you, thank you for sharing Brandon's story.
Your family well be in my thoughts and prayers.
Olive Austin
Laura Long
June 7, 2012
I was so sorry to hear about your precious son! As a mom of two boys, I feel such compassion for what you must be going through. Please know that I am praying for you every day.
Laura (Robinson) Long, DDHS '83
Nancy McCallum
June 7, 2012
Brandon, honey, now you know some things that the rest of us can only dream and wonder about. Just as when your loved ones embraced you as you were born, I imagine those loved ones who've gone before, embracing you now.
There is no matter; only light from energy. Are you surprised to find yourself a bright and shining star? Come and visit anytime. Surprise me!
Much love...shine on for us.
Nancy Layne McCallum XO
Phyllis Kahn
June 7, 2012
Laurie Bixler
June 7, 2012
Steve, Dawn, and Devin: I'm so sorry for your tremendous loss. Thank you for sharing Brandon's story with us, for reaching out to give during your own time of great personal sorrow and need.
Laurie Bixler
Kristy Guadalupe
June 7, 2012
Dawn, Steve and Devin,
Although I did not know Brandon well, I heard a lot about what great boys Brandon and Devin have been. I have no words to express my sorrow and deep sadness for those he has left behind. I know he is in a more peaceful place and I only wish for you that same peace. Your expressions regarding his condition will help others and hopefully will help you in your healing process. I have been thinking of you daily and have been sending warm hugs your way.
Yesenia Chacon
June 7, 2012
Lo siento mucho! Sé que es vivir con eso, mucha fuerza para la familia y descanso para Brandon, TODO un valiente...!
Yesenia
Colombia
June 7, 2012
Que Dios les de la pronta resignación y a el lo tenga en su santa Gloria!!
Steven Mock
June 7, 2012
I am very sorry for your loss. My daughter was part of the Issaquah Gliders and we took the trip to Reno a couple of years ago and I understand that Brandon was there. I didn't know him, but I rooted for him on that snowy day and I will continue to root for him, his cause and your family.
Mark Creek
June 7, 2012
Devin, Steve,and Dawn,
We are so sorry for your loss. Brandon was always playful and had a great sense of humor. He and Devin loved to make me guess who was who. I think I had more fun than they did.
Life was short for Brandon, but he touched so many people with his positive smile.
Our love goes out to the Thomas family. Devin, take the time to grieve and remember all the good times with your brother and stay strong during this difficult time.
Mark, Barbara Creek and family
Carol and Mike
June 7, 2012
We are very touched by Brandon's story. Although we never met him, we know a good friend of his. As parents ourselves, we know how difficult it was for our own children growing up....even without a medical condition. So we appreciate what Brandon was going through and we will pass awareness of his condition on. Thanks for sharing this; we know his parents, family and friends are missing a really great guy.
Ron & Tina Rood
June 7, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you during this time. Thank you for sharing Brandon's story and reminding us to talk to our kids about the challenges they will face in their lives.
catherine G
June 7, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
June 6, 2012
Devin, Dawn and Steve,
Our hearts break with you over your loss of such a beloved brother and son. Thank you for sharing Brandon's story as a way of helping others in this situation. We are committed to supporting your efforts in raising awareness and ensuring Brandon's legacy of kindness and caring lives on through his foundation.
We have been and will continue to keep you in our prayers.
Bob and Robin Callahan
Lynda Corner
June 6, 2012
I read every word. It chocked me up, truly. It is the most thoughtful memorial I have ever seen. You are truly a beautiful family. My grand daughters went to school with Brandon & said he was a wonderful boy. I can't even imagine your heartache but you had the strength to carry out his request. When God calls anyone home, there's nothing we can do, their mission here is completed. Take Care & God bless all of you.
June 6, 2012
thank you for revealing this very painful affliction. i have suffered with this for years. i'm thinking of you all and wish you the very best.
debi, uw
Keegan Kylstra
June 6, 2012
I met Brandon during the summer runs at XC. He would encourage me to try harder, and race faster, and would ask how I was doing running wise. He was a nice guy, and he will be sorely missed. May he Rest In Peace.
Julie Mitzel
June 6, 2012
Dear Thomas Family, Our deepest sympathy pours out to you and your extended family. Thank you for your transparency at this very difficult time. You are all in our prayers and "little Brandon" jumping on the Petersen's trampoline will bring a smile to our face as we remember what a precious boy he was. Love, the Mitzel Family
Paul, Evelyn & Rachel Galasso
June 6, 2012
To the Thomas family,
Our deepest sympathy to all of
you. Our daughter Rachel was
friend with Brandon since 7th
grade and he was her date
during senior prom. He was
such a nice young man.
Rachel was devastated when
she found out and could not
stop crying and all I can do
was hold her. No parents
should ever have to go through
losing a child at a young age. Brandon will be missed but he will not be forgotten.
We would love to share your website to honor Brandon and to share his legacy in order to help others. We will keep you in our prayers.
Deb Thompson
June 6, 2012
No words can express the depth of pain over your loss and the true sorrow I feel for your entire family. I ask the lord give you strength, comfort, peace, and guidance during this horrific and sorrowful time. Brandon was clearly an incredible young man.
June 5, 2012
I Remember Brandon from back in Middle school, and up until I changed Highschools. No matter what type of day he was having, I never heard him say one unpleasant thing about anyone. He was a great person and he'll be greatly missed by everyone. Thank you so much for sharing his story with us, and we're all sending love and prayers to you all.
June 5, 2012
Even though your time with Brandon was cut short, remember the 20 years that you were able to spend with this beautiful young man. Please let us know if we can help out during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Steve & Lucy
Brian Maier
June 5, 2012
Steve, Dawn and Devin: May God bless you with the power to remain strong in the faith that Brandon's pain has now subsided and he is in a worry free place with his heavenly father who loves him dearly. Your efforts and passion were definitely felt by Brandon and clearly state your support and love for your dear son. I will pray that God lays his graceful hand on each of you during this time of sorrow. Brandon will never be forgotten and we will never stop praying for your healing and growth together as a family. ~Brian Maier
Fran Thomas
June 5, 2012
Dawn, Steve and family, my heart it broken over your loss. Brandon was a good friend to my son in the cluster. He was the go-to guy in the cluster, and was the one who actually helped my son get in that cluster! We are forever grateful to him for giving my son a great 1st year experience with the most awesome view in Seattle ! Our son enjpyed his company at the Mariners, Sounders and on Alki beach! We will champion his cause by posting on FB. We think of you often and pray that God heals the pain of his passing. He is an angel looking on you and friends. He will never be forgotten. Blessings, Fran and Kevin Thomas, Kent.
June 5, 2012
Bless you and your family at this difficult time. I am so sorry that your son suffered silently for so long. I am sure that your efforts to educate people will be of great help to others struggling with this condition in the future.
A UW parent.
Fran Thomas
June 5, 2012
I will absolutely share this elightenment at your request, Dawn and Steve. I have heartfelt pain and wishes for healing in His name. I have put myself in your shoes, felt your pain. Brandon was an amazing friend to his clustermates. He remains in our hearts and will absolutely never be forgotten. We think of you constantly and pray that God blesses you, and heals the pain. Please know you are in our prayers.
June 5, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. May your faith, fond memories, and family help you through this time of sorrow. Blessings, Babette Bechtold
Larry & Betty Eccles
June 5, 2012
Steve, Dawn and Devin, Even friends can't find the right words sometimes, but hope you know how many caring thoughts are with you! We will always remember how much fun Brandon was on the dock parties, and especially, how he made the "older" group feel like he enjoyed their company as he did the younger crowd. Always a ready smile, kind, smart, nice, respectful..well, not a big enough web site to describe all of Brandon's attributes. We will be supporting your foundation, and sharing it with all we know. Our hearts and prayers are with your family.
Glenn & Jill Maynard
June 5, 2012
Dear Thomas family, our thoughts & prayers are with you at this very difficult time. Thank you for sharing Brandon's story.
Jeremiah Matters
June 5, 2012
I didn't know Brandon that well, as he was a year ahead of me at Liberty High School, but I knew him from the XC team and he always seemed to be a really nice guy and encouraging teammate. I don't really have much to say, but I have been praying for his family ever since I found out, and I hope the best for them that they will be able to overcome his death and continue their research so that they can help others like Brandon.
Troy Colyer
June 5, 2012
There is a vigil for Brandon tomorrow June 6th at 8 pm located at the University of Washington campus. Located on the median between 17th and 47th st. Adjacent to 1617 NE 47th St Seattle, Wa. All are encouraged to come celebrate his life.
Beverly & Roger Hergenrader
June 5, 2012
Steve, Dawn and Devin, When Vaughn sent us the notice of your loss my heart went out to all of you. It is with a heavy heart and sadness that we send our condolences to you, and all of your family, for the loss of Brandon. It is always difficult to lose someone close to us and even more so when it is a youngster.
KT Boyle
June 5, 2012
I just read your story. I am so very sorry for your loss. Brandon is free from the suffering he endured on earth and can now guide his legacy through all of you, from his position on high. He is smiling and happy... I just know it. God bless you all.
Kirsten Pochop
June 5, 2012
I'm so sorry for your loss. I was Brandon's history TA this quarter. He was such a reliable and thoughtful student. He was a kind soul and will be missed.
June 5, 2012
Dear Steve and Dawn,
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your entire family. Although we have known both Brandon & Devin for many years, it has only been over the past year or so that our sons, Chris & Cameron, have become close to your sons. We hope and pray that God will use this tragedy to help those that face afflictions like Brandon's.
- Kenny & Mary Kaulia
June 5, 2012
Steve, Dawn and Devin, There are absolutely no words to express the pain that we feel for you. Please know that the whole family hurts deeply for you and loves you. Your cousin Dana, Jim, Tony, Jack and Gina Carelle.
Catherine
June 5, 2012
I did not know your son. But I too went to the UW and I also could not speak in class or in a small group without blushing. I stopped wearing the color red for many years because a kid pointed out that I was red as my shirt. I have just posted Brandon's story to my facebook page to give this condition a face and to honor him. My prayers are with you all.
Linda Kessler
June 4, 2012
I'm so sorry to hear about Brandon. I think it is really amazing how you are trying to help others, when your own hearts are breaking. God bless you all. Linda Kessler
June 4, 2012
Dear Steve, Dawn and Devin,
Our hearts break with you as you grieve losing Brandon. We remember when "the twins" were born.....everyone in the fire department celebrated! Now we all mourn with you and hold you in our hearts. Thank you for being so open and sharing about Brandon's condition, which is something we hadn't been aware of. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mary and Fernando Burton
Walter Bennett
June 4, 2012
We knew Brandon from Liberty Track. Our deepest condolences on your loss. Wally, Audra and Devin Bennett
Jenne Bennett
June 4, 2012
Dawn, Steve, and Devin
What an amazing tribute you have made to Brandon by helping to further inform and hopefully heal people suffering from the ailment that afflicted Brandon. I know you will make a world of difference to many people's lives because of this. I will help spread the word in Brandon's name and look forward to seeing Brandon's presence when you start to complete his bucketlist....with much respect, Jenne/Tom/Sophia
June 4, 2012
Dawn, Steve & Devin,
Our entire family is saddened by your loss. Brandon was a remarkable student, a great athlete and an extremely kind young man. We will miss seeing him out shooting hoops on the lake road.
Please know that you're each in our prayers.
The Weik Family
Doug, Crystal, Matt, Chris & Taylor
Lonni Rimes-Arakelian
June 4, 2012
Although I never got the chance to meet Brandon, what an amazing young man. May God bless you and shine his light upon all of you now and forever. Thank you for shedding light on this condition that I've never heard of before. He will live on through the word you're spreading. So SO sorry for your loss.
Kim Springer
June 4, 2012
Steve, Dawn and Devin-
My Heart hurts for your Beautiful family. I do know that Brandon was very blessed to have such an Amazing Mother, Father and Brother. Healing will take time and just remember to always be there for each other.Hugs to you and your family.
Patti Warner
June 4, 2012
Dear Thomas Family,
My sister, Helen Kessler, forwarded Brandon's site to me. I am a middle school nurse, and through Brandon's story, I will be a better one. I have learned of a condition I was not familiar with. I am so very sorry for your loss.
With deepest sympathy,
June 4, 2012
Dear Thomas Family -
My heart breaks for you - your goals to educate the public with Brandon's condition are admirable and I hope will help you deal with your devastating loss.
A Liberty Mom
June 4, 2012
Steve, Dawn and Devin - words fail....I am so sorry about your beautiful boy. Marla (Clayton) Meyer
Seattle Resident
June 4, 2012
Thank you for sharing your very personal story. I am so sorry for your families loss and I commend you for helping others through your honesty.
Terry Beaudry
June 3, 2012
Though I never met Brandon, I have cried for his family for their loss. I pray God will help you get through this time of sorrow.
Bob & Mary Ellen Smith
June 3, 2012
We are so saddened by your loss. Grandma Leslie talked regularly about her beloved grandsons--Brandon & Devin. Our heart and prayers go out to you all at this difficult time. With much Aloha.
Tawnya Reese
June 3, 2012
Steve, Dawn, and Devin - our son Connor Moseley was friends with Brandon, and we thought the world of him. Our thoughts and prayers have been with you all every day, and we are deeply saddened by the loss of such a wonderful young man. We are fortunate to have known him, and the world is less bright without him in it.
daniel leonard
June 3, 2012
Steve, Dawn and Devin, you are in our prayers as we mourn the loss of Brandon and celebrate his life. It was truly a gift to know him - a gift taken too soon. He and Reilley are together, running around the lake.
Ben & Dan
Karen Mooney Odegard
June 3, 2012
My daughter Kate Borgnes graduated from Liberty with your son. I didn't know him but I am grieving for your loss. Your whole family is in my thoughts.
Keegan Burns
June 3, 2012
Your infectious smile was always filled with joy. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts.
June 3, 2012
Steve, Dawn and Devin,
Words cannot express my profound sadness. Every year at his eye exam, I enjoyed catching up with Brandon. He was always pleasant and respectful. A wonderful person who will be missed by many. You are very brave to share his personal struggle. I hope it will help others in the future. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Susie O'Connell. Issaquah Vision
Carla Zenner
June 3, 2012
Dear Dawn, Steve, Leslie and the Thomas family,
I am so sorry for your loss, My heart is broken as well, although I never met him I knew many stories from Leslie about what a fine young man he was. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers.
Blessings,
Carla Zenner
June 3, 2012
A light has gone out, but you will remain in our hearts and thoughts forever. Our love and support to Steve, Dawn and Devin.
Great uncle Leo & Aunt Phyllis
June 3, 2012
Though I've never met Brandon or his family, I pray God will help you get through this time of sorrow. I have a 20 year old and can't imagine the pain you are going through. God Bless you.
A Mom
June 3, 2012
Dear Thomas Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember Brandon fondly. He was a fine young man. I'm glad that I was able to know him. I know that his other teachers at Liberty feel the same way. My thoughts are with you.
Mike Hausenfluck
UW Mom
June 3, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
June 3, 2012
Steve, Dawn & Devin,
My heart breaks for you all, and words cannot express the sorrow I feel. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Steve Cassidy
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