Friday, September 15, 2023
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Dear Battaglia Family and Friends,
Sending my heartfelt condolences to you on the loss of Brian--or as he was affectionally known in our Gentry neighborhood, Mr. Brian. Brian was a larger than life figure in our neighborhood and played a big role in our lives and the lives of our family for the past 20 years. He was the kind of neighbor who would walk right into our house without knocking, and sit down at the kitchen table to talk. He was full of life, and banter and love, and it was all but impossible not to laugh when he was around. Brian was also incredibly kind and generous. More times than I can count, he plowed the snow from our driveway. We never needed to ask, and he wouldn't accept any payment. He was just being Brian--thoughtful and generous. I remember the many pizza nights when he cooked for bunches of the neighbors (with the smoke alarm chirping in the background), and drinking wine in the kitchen. I remember the Halloween hayrides -- with all the kids in their costumes in the wagon, and Brian pulling them with his tractor, and how they laughed. I remember the birthday parties, the pool days, the camping trips, and the crazy over-the-top stories. I also remember the time that Brian sacrificed himself to protect our neighborhood and all of our children. That was who he was--a loyal friend, a protector, a man who stood up for his friends, family and community. My family and I are so very sorry he has passed, and remember him with much affection and fondness. He was truly one of a kind and we will all miss him.
