Ricky Allen Brannam

BRANNAM, Ricky Allen a.k.a. “Slayerdude” (Age 41) lived his amazing life to the fullest and he crossed that final finish line September 25, 2011 on his own terms after a determined battle with cancer, spending his final days surrounded by friends, family, laughter, and love. This poetic journey began in Houston, Missouri on December 16, 1969. Rick terrorized this small town with his cousins and sister building forts in the woods, conquering ponds and entertaining everyone he met. Fifteen years (and many empty fishin’ holes later) Rick, mother and sister relocated to Oregon, Wisconsin, where he pursued his ambition to entertain the masses and expand his collection of friends. He attended Oregon High School where he became the scourge of the principal’s office, having gone as far as to be ejected from detention (for blowing his nose-his daughter Em’s favorite story). Rick was active in the high school drama club, and during this formative period of his life developed an avid obsession of any and all music. This love of anything related to music, and the friends he made along the way helped to shape the man that so many love. After graduating from high school in 1988, Rick felt the need to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. Stationed in Long Beach, CA, he proudly served as an engineman 3rd class on the USS Racine. He attained the rank of E-4, and travelled the globe extensively (one beer at a time…) The crew of the U.S.S. Racine became his family, and many are still major players to this day. It was during one of many barely legal outings that his hot and sexy babe Alicia wandered into his life. Together they had many wild adventures (some a little too wild for this respectable publication). Several years later, after many trials and tribulations they relocated to Spokane, WA and were married on June 28, 1997 in an amazing very suitable celebration at the Spokane Masonic Center. May 22nd, 1998 Rick met the true love of his life the day his beautiful, blue-eyed baby daughter Emily Rashelle was born. Few fathers enjoyed a bond as strong as Em and her dad. He was proud to tell everyone she was his mini-me with some Alicia thrown in to keep it spicy. Rick was employed by Gold Seal Mechanical as a plumber. He took great pride in his craft, and was well known throughout the industry for his quality, great attitude, and honorable work ethic. Rick was probably best known publicly as his “Slayerdude” persona on Rock 94.5. His daily dose of (toilet) humor, priceless wit, and take on the world, inspired thousands. The world could join him in a belly laugh every morning-he brightened many a day. His initiation into “The Blacktop Terrors” hotrod and motorcycle club was one of Rick’s proudest moments. This group was home and family for Rick. Rick’s love of turning wrenches on old cars, searching for parts, and driving them was rivaled only by his love for the time spent with friends and family. Rick was the most amazing human, friend, husband, and father this earth has ever been lucky enough to enjoy. He brought a smile or laugh to every person he touched and always made the sun shine just a little bit brighter. He lived life on his terms, cared not about what anyone thought of how he lived his life, and laughed and joked until the very last day. Cancer may have stolen his body but can never rob us of his love and laughter which will echo until the end of time. Rick is survived by his devoted (usually irritated) wife Alicia; witty, amazing daughter Emily Rashelle, age 13, who will both love him forever. He is also survived by his mother Peggy Salmon; sister Tracy Hendrickson, her husband Gary, their children Jasmine (age 17) and Alexandra (age 10), all of Wisconsin; his mother-in-law Barbara Manley; sister-in-law Jill Manley, her children Alexis, age 13, and Drake, age 6; his best friend Jake Evans, his wife Lisa, and son Michael, age 20. Donations to the family can be made at http://www.giveforward.com/teambrannam. Flowers to the family home. A Memorial Service will be held October 15th at the Masonic temple on Garland, time TBD. Details/addresses can be obtained by contacting Jill at 509-995-8989.