Remembering a Rebel
by John White
Just a short observation about Brian that I will share with you.
Most of you remember Brian during our high school daze. B.W. loved to live life fast and hard. Brian's effort on the field mirrored his life beyond the field. B.W. played hard, hauled in difficult catches from Lyons and Cappadonna, received his share of tough hits, but always bounced back. He was the essence of cool as described by Rusty. He was James Dean and the Fonz all wrapped into one. He was a Rebel without a Pause.
Fast forward 30 years to 2002 , and B.W. makes his first appearance to our team reunion in Midland. At first you don't know what you are going to get from an old team mate after not seeing for such a long time.All you have is old memories to frame your preconception Brian spent most of his time arm and arm with a pretty little gal name Celena.
Had the opportunity to talk to Brian over these past 3 reunions and what Brian emphasized to me was how much his life had changed when he met and then married Celena. I gathered that Brian ran hard and long from high school into adulthood. He was so proud of his wife and how he believed she save him ....from himself.
Most of the guys enjoy our gatherings, however Brian seemed especially engaged with the conversations, skits, and awards. He laughed harder and smiled wider than the rest of us. Brian really drank in the camaraderie and savored every moment. It was almost like he was finally home with his football brothers. He relished every moment.
Brian was a sharp witted, highly skilled internet technician that would boggle your mind, loved his motorcycles, a fantastic team mate, but most of all loved his wife and daughter.
In the year before the event, Brian suffered and fought through two strokes.. I was really concerned that maybe B.W. should stay at home and regain his footing. However Brian insisted on coming to the reunion in late September. He had difficulty with speaking out his thoughts, and his energy levels lagged as the evening approached, yet there was that smile.
Supported by his engaging daughter and sweet wife, Brian reveled with the Rebels late into the evening. Like his days on the football field, Brian had given everything he had . He was fierce in the face of adversity. You might even say that B.W. was courageous.
However, the most fascinating and heart rendering moments for me is to see that Brian was happy to be where he was. He was content with life and felt blessed that his life had ended up with a beautiful helpmate and a wonderful daughter. It is in that transition from being a Rebel into finding a life full of sweetness that I will always cherish.
God Bless You #80. We will see you on the other side of the divide.
Cindi Cary (Mladenka)
Brian was a dear friend of mine, and his loss has effected me terribly. More then I expected.
His funeral service was held on a beautiful fall day (Nov. 17th, 2012) outside of San Saba, Texas. I wanted to post the program from his funeral here, so the rest of you could remember and learn more about his life, since graduating from high school.
Friends at the funeral: (left to right) - Danny Truelove, Mark Murray, Leroy Cagle, Jack Rawdon,
Gary McCright, Jim Tolles and Mark Mladenka
Regina Robertson (Neill)
What a beautiful tribute to such a fun loving person. He was always a joy to be around. Thank you all for sharing