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BRIAN MIZEN Obituary

1938 - 2017

On February 2nd, 2017, Brian Mizen passed away while in the company of his family.

Brian Mizen was a storyteller. Before the Alzheimer's stole his memory he would tell great stories of his childhood adventures in England and of camping trips and fishing trips interrupted by bears and such. Brian Mizen was a storyteller and this is his story:

He came to America from England in his 20s. He worked very hard and his talents were in demand. He met and fell pretty much immediately in love with a beautiful girl named Cheryl. Their meeting led to a 50+ year marriage and 2 children.

His life was filled with camping, fishing, wine and cheese, friends and family, golf and boating, music, woodworking. There was photography and laughter and love and beautiful whistling (man, that guy could whistle!)

Brian adored his mother Alice and cherished his father Henry. They have welcomed him now I know because he spoke to them aloud just before he passed.

He loved having thoughtful discussions with his niece Aubree Kosmal Clark, and laughing and dancing and sipping wine with his sister in law Melisa Kosmal brother in law Al Kosmal.

He had a long friendship with his father in law Raymond Bisch, and he loved his extended family of Cathy Mizen and Jason Davis and Lucas Clark too.

Several animals were lucky to have been loved by Brian, but none more than his dog Enzo.

Grandchildren never heard a coarse word from him, only love and support and pride.

Brian relished his time fishing with his namesake Brian Alexander, and watching Sophia play and dance and sing and dress up, Lying in the grass interpreting the clouds, or golfing or goofy dancing with Miranda filled his papa heart with joy.

His children, Emily and Robert know, how lucky they are to have had a father like Brian.

He was involved in every aspect of their lives, smiling, laughing and cheering. He was the kind of dad every child deserves, but that not all get.

Brian was in love with Cheryl until his dying breath. "My love", he called her always, as if it were one word, "m'love". His affection and awe for her filled his heart until it beat its last.

Brian Mizen loved and meant and said, felt, built, changed and fixed, was and is much much more than these words written here.

A celebration of life will be held at the Boathouse at Zuanich Park in Bellingham on February 12th from 4 to 6 pm.

In lieu of flowers come share or send a story.

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

Published by Skagit Valley Herald from Feb. 8 to Feb. 9, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for BRIAN MIZEN

Not sure what to say?





Frank and Michal Handy And Lily Danke

February 25, 2017

Just today we learned of Brian's death earlier this month...he was a memorable neighbor and will be missed! Often seen walking Enzo around the neighborhood, Brian was always friendly with a smile or encouragement to share. When our granddaughter went around the neighborhood selling Girl Scout cookies; collecting donations for the Heart Association; or school fund raisers, Brian always had a kind word along with a purchase to help out. Wishing you the best in your new great adventure Brian, we know your memory will stay strong within those you loved and had to leave behind temporarily!

JoJo Molloy

February 17, 2017

I was very blessed to meet this father of my precious daughter in law on a number of occasions. He was such a kind, gentle and loving person. I remember all of us hanging around the campfire playing guitars and singing. I watched as tears of joy flowed from his and Cheryl's eyes as their daughter Emily sang the most amazing version of an Eva Cassidy song. It brought tears to my eyes and filled me with joy. Even though it was only a few times, it was always such a pleasure to be in his company. And he sure had great taste in wine Here's to you Brian ! Please tell the powers that be up there to have a good cab sav ready for me when I join you. We will toast to you on our visit to Bellingham this June

Monte Davis

February 17, 2017

I did not get to know Brian as well as I had hoped. I did, however, get to spend a few very enjoyable evenings with him as well as a thoroughly enjoyable round of golf.
Of the few private conversations we enjoyed, the one that sticks with me always was the one we shared about how lucky we both were to have found, fallen in love with, and managed to stay married to our incredible wives! In that same conversation we both hoped and wished the same for our shared son and daughter Jason and Emily. His eyes shone with pride as he spoke of his daughter and granddaughter with love and pride.
He was not afraid to show his heart, and I found it to be one of the really good ones.
With love and deepest condolences, Monte

Wendy Galasso

February 11, 2017

I miss the twinkle in his eye when he smiled or laughed. We had some fun golf outings over the years, I'll never forget how hard the wind blew in our faces in Palm Springs and Brian used a driver on a par 3. I'm sure he made his par!

June and Greg Snelson

February 8, 2017

A kind, funny and wonderful man. Rest in sweet peace, Brian. And to those left behind for a brief time, may you find solace in God's unending love and grace.

February 8, 2017

You have my condolences,, I'm so sorry for the loss of your love one, may the loving support of family, friends and prayers sustain you through this very difficult time. 2nd. Corinthians 1:3, 4

Sandy Roosendaal

February 7, 2017

I had the pleasure of working with Brian and not only was he a great story teller, he also loved to pull pranks. RIP Brian.

Doug Brown

February 7, 2017

Thank you for the great memories. You were a great boss & friend.

Terry Sherman

February 7, 2017

Brian was the best neighbor in the world. I am so saddened to hear of this. I always enjoyed talking with him over the fence...he is going to be missed. He was a very sweet man, and it was my good fortune to know him.

Ron Brudwick

February 7, 2017

I worked with Brian in Anacortes for a few years. He always seemed to be smiling, and ready for a good laugh. His knowledge of the piping industry was impressive, and I learned from him. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

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