Brian David Szalanski's Obituary
Mr. Brian David Szalanski, age 56, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, August 19, 2020 in Irons, Michigan. He was born in St. Clair Shores on April 10, 1964 to Leo and Bicia (Cipresso) Szalanski. Brian graduated from Central Michigan University with a double major in Statistics and Accounting (Fire Up Chips!). On September 19, 1992, Brian married the former Kelly J. Atkin.
Brian began his career as a CPA for Follmer Rudzewicz in Southfield, followed by BDO Seidman in Detroit. A position as a Finance Controller for T&N Industries, later Federal Mogul in Grand Haven, spurred Brian and Kelly’s move to the west side of Michigan, where they made their home for 14 years. Brian and Kelly moved to South Carolina for a period before Brian accepted a position with E.D. Bullard Company in Kentucky where he worked until his retirement in 2016. After retirement, Brian and Kelly moved back to west Michigan where they co-resided in Norton Shores and Irons.
Brian was an avid fisherman and loved being outdoors in nature. Brian and Kelly’s passion for the outdoors took them all over the United States where they logged thousands of miles hiking and camping through State and National Parks. He also was a devoted sports fan and was especially keen on hockey, golf, baseball, college football and college basketball. He had an uncanny ability to recall batting averages, team rankings, and other statistical details about hobbies he had a passion for that left friends and family awed. He could be relentless when challenged. Brian also was passionate about U.S. History, particularly the U.S. Civil War, and read extensively about the battles, military personnel, and presidents of the time, as well as visited several historical battle sites. But, more than anything, Brian loved making people laugh about the minutiae of everyday life. His humorous and fun-loving attitude is something that friends and family will miss dearly.
He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Kelly; sister-in-law, JoAnn (Dan Munson) Atkin; and brother-in-law, Dale Atkin and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Linda Hysler.
According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. Due to the current pandemic restrictions, no services will be held at this time. Please share your memories of Brian here for others to enjoy. Memorials in memory of Brian may be directed to www.give.nationalparks.org.
Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444.
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