Brian Henry Bjornson

Brian H. Bjornson passed away with his wife Debbie, his son Haldan and daughter Anika at his side at their home in West Linn on August 11, 2020. Brian developed a disabling muscle disease and became homebound in March, 2020. Known for his self confidence, determination, and strong sense of purpose he continued to work in spite of this progressively debilitating condition. Until the end Brian was alert, able to enjoy his family and friends and be comforted by them, even working on line with his associates at Norris and Stevens.

Brian was born in Portland to Ruth and Spencer Bjornson on October 11, 1944. He grew up in Garden Home. His father passed away when Brian was a teenager. In their devoted family he remained very supportive and close to his mother developing his outstanding trait of loyalty to family, friends, and coworkers.

Brian attended Garden Home Grade School and Beaverton High School where he played football and baseball. He also was a member of Boy Scouts attaining the top rank of Eagle Scout. Brian took the Boy Scout Motto seriously as those of us who know him associate his strength of character with the words of that Motto. Brian’s success in Scouts likely gave him confidence that he could succeed with more serious endeavors of the future.

Following high school, Brian attended Portland State College after a brief start at Oregon State. While at PSC, Brian studied as an exchange student in Italy and Sweden. He developed his love of Nordic heritage that he later shared with his family. Brian took his family on two trips to Iceland in 2007 and 2008 where they found the family farm of his great-grandfather, Thorlacker. Brian always valued his family and friendship roots.

Following college, in 1972, Brian joined Norris and Stevens, Inc. Recognizing the strength and character of the Norris and Stevens leadership team, Brian began his life-long career. He went on to found the company’s apartment brokerage and management division. Norris and Stevens, locally owned, grew to become one of the largest commercial real estate firms in Oregon and SW Washington.

In 1987, Brian became the majority owner of N & S and led the company. Brian was the current Chairman of the Board for Norris & Stevens.

When Brian had established his success in business, he was ready for a family. Brian met Debbie Trick in 1993 on a blind date and married in 1998. They were blessed with two children, Haldan age 20 and Anika, age 18. Both are now college students. Like in his business, Brian gave his all to equip and encourage both children to be the best they can be. Brian took great joy and pride in his family; his influence and support will be greatly missed.