Brian Quinlivan

Brian R. Quinlivan, 57

RUTLAND - Brian R. Quinlivan, 57, formerly of Worcester, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 8, 2018 under the loving care of his family and the dedicated staff at UMass Memorial Healthcare after an illness. Brian was born in Lebanon, Pennsylvania and raised in Worcester, the youngest of four brothers. He was a graduate of Burncoat Senior High School, class of 1979 and Quinsigamond Community College, both in Worcester.

On May 24, 1986, Brian married his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Karen Goodney in Worcester. They soon had a home built in the Lincoln Street area of Worcester where they resided for 18 years happily raising their children before moving to Rutland in 2005. He was a devout member of St. Patrick's Church in Rutland where he taught CCD; instructing the same class from fifth grade to their Confirmation. Brian enjoyed outdoor activities including past adventures in Green Hill Park with his brothers, hunting sojourns with family and friends, scuba diving, and spending time gardening in his backyard.

Brian worked many years in healthcare sales before finding his true calling in telecommunications. He worked for the past 6 years as a telecommunications engineer for Kaman Corporation in Bloomfield, Connecticut. Brian was very proud to work for Kaman, and felt it was an honor and a privilege to work with so many wonderful people during his time there.

Brian was an avid do-it-yourselfer, and was always willing to share his knowledge and his tools with neighbors and friends. He loved instructing captivated neighborhood children on the art of building birdhouses or the finer points of vegetable gardening. Neighbors were enamored with his Irish charm and wit. He was considered the king of one-liners and storytelling, and was fond of saying: "If they don't find you handsome, at least let them find you handy." Brian made friends wherever he went and was known, not only for his incredible sense of humor, but for his selfless nature, idealism and humility. First and foremost, Brian was a family man. He treasured being a loving husband, dad, son, and brother. He often reflected on heartfelt memories made while vacationing with his family in Dennis at Mayflower Beach.

The last chapter of Brian's life showcased his strength, compassion and how at peace he was with his family by his side.

Brian will be forever remembered and missed by his beloved wife of 32 years, Karen (Goodney) Quinlivan; his daughters, Kathryn and Emily Quinlivan both of Rutland; his mother, Joan E. (Nugent) Quinlivan of Worcester; two brothers, Michael T. Quinlivan of Rutland and James P. Quinlivan, Jr. and his partner, Denise Sinkus of Worcester; and numerous nephews, nieces and cousins. He is predeceased by his father, Deacon James P. Quinlivan, Sr. and his brother, Joseph J. Quinlivan.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Brian's family from 4 to 8 PM on Monday, March 12, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 AM on Tuesday, March 13, at St. Patrick's Church, 258 Main St., Rutland. Interment will follow at St. John's Cemetery in Worcester. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Brian's name to the Rutland Food Pantry. P.O. Box 939, Rutland, MA 01543, or the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit

www.milesfuneralhome.com