Brian Jackson Fetzer, age 77, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, in Murray, Utah. He was born in Salt Lake City on April 9, 1948, to his parents Henry Peter Fetzer and Florence Woolley Jackson. He married Lori Jill Petrovich in the Salt Lake Temple on February 24, 1995.
Family was important to Brian, and he enjoyed spending time at the family cabin in Emigration Canyon playing games, storytelling, hiking, playing games, and other activities.
After graduating from East High School in Salt Lake City, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from the University of Utah.
He also enjoyed woodworking, photography, videography, writing stories and poems, and artwork. However, he was especially fond of composing and performing his original musical numbers. He loved sharing his musical talents at church services and socials, retirement homes, schools, fairs and family gatherings. He especially enjoyed the music of the Christmas season.
In 1995, he received special recognition from the music contest of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for his song "Bethlehem Merchant", which premiered in the Salt Lake Tabernacle on Temple Square. This song with full chorus and orchestra was also broadcast on PBS television nationally.
For several years, he organized the Salt Lake Freedom Film and Storytelling Festival at the University of Utah Fort Douglas Post Theater. The event featured some of his original productions and other motion pictures, live performances and storytelling.
He also combined his love for mathematics and music to help students enjoy learning about math. One of his original songs, "Pi, the Song", was performed many times in schools. Several local news channels featured Brian teaching children the first seven digits of this unique mathematical sequence.
Brian and Jill enjoyed attending the Utah Shakespearean Festival in Cedar City, Utah and many other plays and performances. They were often accompanied by family and friends for these activities.
Brian was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served a full-time mission in Austria. (During his mission he picked up the nickname of "The Singing Minstrel".) Some of his Church callings include Elders Quorum counselor, music director, scout leader, and Primary teacher. He also enjoyed visiting members as part of his ministering assignments. Worshiping in the temple was also an important part of his life.
Brian was preceded in death by his beloved son, Anthony Petrovich Fetzer; his parents, Florence and Henry Fetzer; and his siblings, Lorna Monson, Joyce Powell, Norine Smith, Steven Fetzer, and Kent Fetzer. He is survived by his devoted wife, Lori Jill Petrovich Fetzer, and his siblings, Barbara Hamblin, Grant Fetzer, Kathryn Fetzer, Lowell Fetzer, and Pamela Hawker.
Kathy Schoenhals (Feigal)
I remember Brian playing the bassoon in East's orchestra—he was so earnest! He also sang and played guitar at many of our reunions, sharing his love of music with warmth and sincerity. At his funeral, it was said that Brian endured the pain of much criticism, yet he remained true to himself. He never spoke harshly of others and continued to walk his own path with quiet courage. Brian understood that he saw the world through a different lens. Still, he embraced that perspective and expressed it through music and numerous YouTube videos. He had a creative spirit that couldn't be dimmed.
When he was younger, Brian made a point of ensuring every girl had a chance to dance at the ward dances—a small act that revealed his deep kindness. Despite lifelong medical challenges, he maintained a bright outlook and a steady faith.
He loved living next to Gilgal Gardens, where he often gave guided tours, quoting Job 19 and speaking passionately about the power of sacred words engraved in stone forever.
Seven and a half years ago, Brian was struck by a car. Even then, he met life with a childlike faith, believing that his trials were shaping him for a greater purpose.
Brian moved through the world with focus, sensitivity, and grace—creating heartfelt music and following a path all his own. His persistence is truly inspiring.
Rest in peace, Brian.
Shauna Manning (Wadley)
Brian was a true friend. Talented beyond measure. His sister played the harp near the pond on the Garden Park Ward grounds for our wedding reception.Kathy Schoenhals (Feigal)
SHAUNA - His sister played the harp at the funeral. It was lovely!
Shauna Manning (Wadley)
Kathy, I would have loved to hear it! Still sharing her talent after 54 years.