Brian William Lightcap

Brian pursued higher education at Iowa State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree before enlisting in the Army, where he served honorably, achieving the rank of Sergeant. Following his military service, he furthered his education at Southern Illinois University, earning a Master’s degree in Forestry.

Guided by a deep love for nature and a lifelong commitment to protecting the environment, Brian moved to Oregon, settling in the Portland area to build a life centered on family, service, and community.

A man of many passions, Brian was an active member of the Unitarian Universalist Church, where he found joy in singing in choirs for over 40 years. He began at the First Unitarian Church in downtown Portland and later sang at the Washington County Unitarian Universalist Church, where his voice brought comfort and inspiration to many.

Professionally, Brian dedicated 25 years to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a respected wetland ecologist before retiring in 2001. His work left an enduring impact on Oregon’s natural landscape, and his personal commitment to conservation continued long after his retirement. On his 54-acre agro-forestry operation in Northwest Multnomah County, he raised sheep and sustainably harvested wood, crafting picture frames, gates, and furniture—a reflection of his ingenuity and connection to the land.

Brian’s passion for conservation extended into community service. He served on the West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District Board for an extraordinary 41 years, from January 1983 until his passing in November 2024, representing Zones 5 and later 4. As the board’s longest-serving member, he held the title of Chair Emeritus and was instrumental in initiatives such as the Sturgeon Lake restoration, securing critical funding for the project.

His dedication also extended to volunteering with the Oregon Association of Conservation Districts and mentoring young minds through the Resources and People (RAP) Camp, a week-long program that inspired high school students to engage with conservation efforts.

An active member of the Skyline Grange since 2011, Brian chaired its Agriculture Committee for many years, championing sustainable practices and strengthening his local community.

Brian was preceded in death by his wife, Christine Lightcap. He is survived by his sons, Zachary Lightcap of Washington and Andrew Lightcap of Oregon; his daughter-in-law, Lisa Lightcap; his beloved grandchildren, Kinley and Ella Lightcap; his sisters, Peggy Gulzynski of Tennessee, Jane Call of Arizona, Cindy Powell of Illinois, and Mergie Brandt of Florida; his brothers-in-law, Brian Gulzynski of Tennessee, Ralph Powell of Illinois, and Lou Brandt of Florida; his ex-wife, Rose Lightcap; and many nieces and nephews.

Reflecting on his father’s legacy, Andy shared, “He was like the last of a 20th-century pioneer. If you see a wetland in Oregon, good chances are he helped save it, and he definitely knew about it.”

Brian will be remembered for his quiet strength, boundless dedication to family and community, and his profound impact on Oregon’s environment.

He will be laid to rest at Skyline Memorial Gardens in Portland, Oregon, where his memory will forever be honored amidst the serene Willamette Valley and the breathtaking sunsets of the Pacific Coast Range.