What I will always remember Brian for is that he LOVED our daughter Robbi, and Caleb, Colton and Casie.  We are so very grateful to God for Brian, and that God brought Brian and Robbi together.  He was taken way too soon, and that is so hard to understand.  But the years they had together were so rich - in love, in adventures and making memories.  Eternal rest grant unto him, Oh Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him.  May he rest in peace.

Junior year of high school Casie and I went to Prom together as “dates”. As soon as we were ready, Casie and I headed outside so Robbi could take pictures. As Robbi was giving pointers on how and where to stand in our long dresses, camera in hand, Brian could be heard in the background yelling over Robbi (and that’s not easy to do), “Sarah, girl! You square those shoulders and stand TALL. Wear the shit out of those heels!” This is the first time I had heard the “stand tall encouragement” outside of my own parents. For me, growing up I was always a little self-conscious about my height. I towered over all the boys flat footed. The moment I put on a pair of heels it wasn’t uncommon for everyone to feel the need to question my choice of shoes, "Why do you wear heels?  You’re so tall.” Brian didn’t know this at the time, but his words gave me the confidence at that awkward age of 16 to proudly wear my height and to unapologetically be myself. From that day, Brian never stopped reminding me to square my shoulders. It's 13 years later and I still get questioned on my shoe choice, but that's because of Brian's influence for me to be who I am. Last week this question annoyed me.  Little did I know this annoyance would turn to a gift, a gift of Brian's memory and hearing him say, “Girl, stand tall, square your shoulders and wear the shit out of your heels!” My heart breaks hearing of this tragic loss. Life is interesting in the fact that eventually age doesn't play a factor in friendships. Over the years, Robbi and Brian went from “Casie’s parents”, to dear friends. I hold close to my heart the times we had. Brian’s relationship advice, taste in wine, lemon vinaigrette recipe, and flourless chocolate cake with raspberries are second to none. I will forever think of Brian as I dress my salads with his famous lemon vinaigrette, drink a great Italian red with chocolate, while proudly wearing heels.  Until next time, Brian.  I know you are smiling and laughing from above. 

The first time I met Brian, we were having his future son in laws bachelor party.  Jack warned me about Brian and how competitive he was, and Jack knew him and I would get along through our love of golf and talking trash.  We were playing a scramble and my team beat Brian's that day, and you would have thought it was the worst thing that has ever happened.  He got his revenge later that day at the go-cart track and he did not hold back on me after he won that race!  At that point I knew that Brian and I would get along very well.  Before Jack and Casie's wedding a group of us went to play golf and Brian wanted a rematch one-on-one.  Casie told me that  it was the only thing he was talking about, how bad he wanted to get me back for beating him on the course.  I loved it.  We walked separately from the rest of the group and became great friends that day.  I got the best of him  that day too! Sorry Brian!
I had the opportunity to share a lot of meals, a Florida vacation, and a lot of rounds of golf with Brian.  He was a great man.  Watching him around his grand kids was always a treat.  He loved all those boys with his whole heart.  I am going to miss my friend, but I am so happy that he allowed me to be a part of his life.  

From the very 1st time I met Brian is was like meeting a best friend you never knew you had. He was such a caring person, and could talk to him about anything. I remember when they graciously invited me to their family vacation to Florida a few years back, me and Brian stayed up super late talking about cars and sports till probably 1am after everyone went to bed on the back balcony. He was also the most patient man I have ever know, I say that because he had to be when he was trying to teach me how to paddle board, I’m sure he got some good laughs from that and also they few times I tired to play golf with him, those sure where some fun times. Also to this day his chicken pesto will beat anyone’s in the world hands down! So thankful he gave me the recipe.  We sure did lose a great man but the memories we all have with him will live with us till we see him again! Love and praying for you Robbie, Casie, Jack and the boys! 

Brian and Robbi shared their home with my family on several occasions. We loved to talk about traveling and eating good food. Brian was a wonderful cook. He prepared Pesto Chicken for us all one night. It was delicious.  He also taught me how to make it. It has been my son's favorite dish ever since. We will remember Brian for his kindness, willingness to help others, and loving our sweet Robbi so well.  

I wish I could have known him better, he seemed so sweet and friendly, always had a smile on his face.   I hope you and your family  take comfort in all your memories, especially the ones with all his wonderful grand babies!! 

My uncle Brian is a man that I have always deeply loved and respected. Even though we lived a good distance away and didn't see each other as often as I would have liked, his love for us is something I have never questioned. Steve and I have have been going back to a family vacation in one of the Carolinas when Keenin was just over year old and Brian thought it was a great idea to teach Keenin how to box! It may have been a fleeting moment, but that memory has always stuck with us.  The joy they shared that night was amazing!

I had the privilege of working for and beside Brian for quite a few years.  He was impeccably skilled as an attorney but also as a storyteller.  Brian’s version was always the best version.  Whether it was about his golf game or a recent trip, I enjoyed listening to his take on events no matter how big or small they were.

Brian was a firm believer in educating his clients and worked hard to give each client the best recovery possible.  He was very generous, unintentionally funny, an excellent teacher and a vigorous advocate for many.  He was one of a kind and my close friend, and I miss him every day.

 Brian was a special person. I thought of you and him often. We will miss him,but I know he is with  God and we will someday meet again.   Love and prayers Alice Svanda

Brian was instrumental in the most tragic time of my life. He was not only my attorney but also a great friend. He will forever be in my heart and Robbie and the family in my prayers. 

Robbi,
I never got to meet Brian, but from knowing what he was to my children and grandchildren ( the Downings), and from your Fb post, he was quite a guy. 

LOVE and PRAYERS to you and the family. 

My deepest condolences to Brian's family during this time. I know Brian was well loved and respected.  He was a great companion to his beautiful wife Robbi.  Thegether they loved to travel and spend time with their family.  After a motorcycle accident, Robbi confided that Brian was not the best patient and he hated to be confined due to an injury.  He will be dearly missed, maybe he beat cancer in his own way as he will be forever young, strong, athletic, professional, a fighter, adverterous and a loving charismatic guy.

Our deepest sympathies to Robbi, the children, and all the family from Mark Brittingham, Kathy Pine, and our children. We knew Brian as outstanding husband and father, where our kids played sports and carpooled together.  I also knew Brian as an excellent lawyer. Though I was on the opposite side of the case from Brian, he was always professional, competent, and honest. Importantly, Brian vigorously represented his clients always taking their cases seriously.  Brian is a big loss to his family, his clients and our community. Kathy Pine

    Brian was a good friend and a good lawyer.  He had an infectious smile with a charismatic personality that brought light to a room.  As a lawyer he was well respected. He fought hard for his clients and always maintained his integrity. Most importantly, he never lost sight of the fact that his work was about taking care of his clients.  As a fellow lawyer, I have never heard a negative word about Brian.  What I have found out recently is that when Brian represented someone they weren’t just a number or a random case for him, and he wasn’t just a lawyer to his clients; a friendship developed. 
     As a friend, we talked about a lot of things.  We  could carry on a heck of a conversation about cars. He commented frequently about his love for his wife and family, his love of golf and living an active lifestyle. He was by far the most physically fit 51 year old I ever have known.  
    When Brian called and told me he was sick, we discussed our confusion about how and why this could happen. Brian said he had thought about it, and came to a  conclusion;  why wouldn’t it happen to him?  He said to me that he was no more special or deserving than a child with a terminal illness, or a person struck with COVID.   He didn’t think there was anything “special” about him that should make God favor him over another.  My selfishness in wanting him around makes me not want to agree, but maybe he was right. I know I will never forget that attitude. One thing I do know for sure is that Brian K. Zirkelbach was special to a hell of a lot of people, and he had a positive impact on all of us. My buddy will be greatly missed. 
     I know he rests in peace.  May his family also be at peace
EK


From top notch middle school volleyball dad to helping my family through a devastating loss of our own, Brian was just always such a great guy. Plain and simple. I’m so proud to have known him and his beautiful family for many years. This is such a deep loss for anyone who knew and loved him.

Words cannot express how heavy our hearts are, as we mourn the loss of Brian. He was not only our attorney and confidant, but very good friend. Brian always knew when you needed him to be candid, just to listen or when you needed a hug.  We will sincerely miss him. Robbi and Family- May you find peace and comfort in your memories. 

Brian will be missed dearly by my wife and myself he was not just my attorney but my dear friend he had such a good heart he treated me as friend he did not have to do the things for me that he done but that's the man he was and it breaks my heart that I didn't get to thank him for what he done for me. Rest in peace my friend you will always be in my thoughts Brian and I will miss you dearly THANK YOU for always being there . To his family my deepest sympathy I am so sorry for your loss.  Sincerely Gary Mullins.

My husband John and I knew Brian  for so many years, such a kind soul.  We know how much he loved his family and his life. Prayers for understanding and may he rest in eternal peace. Much love.

There are too many to pick just one. Our hearts are still hurting, but the fond memories make us laugh between our tears. You pushing Ronan’s  stroller as we all did the Drumstick Dash...our one big family dinner (we wanted so many more)...meeting in LA for lunch on that beautiful sunny day...the time I ran away to Carbondale and stayed with you guys (and learned what how amazing you were in the kitchen)...and these are just a few from from this decade. You were like a father at times to Derien and a cool uncle to Dylan. You and Craig were two peas in a pod. Just weeks ago you stayed to play 9 more holes because you couldn’t stand that he’d won.  That was so like you it makes us smile to think of it. You will forever be loved, Brian.

OBITUARY

Brian Keith Zirkelbach

September 24, 1969 – October 29, 2020

Feeney-Hornak Keystone Mortuary

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