Brian Leslie Ganske, age 69, a lifetime resident of Skagit Valley, passed away in Bellingham on October 27, 2023. He was born April 23, 1954 in Sedro-Woolley to Donald and Florence (Rutledge) Ganske.
Brian started working at Snelson Companies, Inc. in 1969 washing vehicles. He continued to work at Snelson’s and retired in 2011 as part owner of the company. He also continued to consult after his retirement until 2023. During his employment with Snelson Companies, he served on the board of the Pipe Line Contractors Association (PLCA) from 2003-2018 and was elected President in 2010. Brian served on the labor committee for 7 years and was a trustee for the Pipeline Industry Advancement fund for 6 years. Brian was an active member in his community. He served with the Sedro-Woolley Rotary Club, Skagit Nile Shriners and Skagit County Search and Rescue. He was also honored in 2016 by the Community Recognition Program with the Sedro-Woolley School District and Sedro-Woolley community for his outstanding accomplishments.
Brian and his wife Joanie (Mulholland) were married in 1974 in Sedro-Woolley. They enjoyed traveling together and split their time between their homes in Big Lake and Florence, Arizona. Family was most important to Brian, and he involved his family in most everything he did. He enjoyed fishing in Alaska, spending time in his shop, golfing and having Sunday dinners with his two daughters, Nicole and Sabrina, and their families.
Brian is survived by his wife of 49 years, Joanie; his two daughters, Sabrina Guilliaume and husband Daniel of Stanwood, Nicole Peterson and husband Nolan of Mount Vernon; three grandchildren, Ashton and Ella Guilliaume and Evan Vinal; mother, Florence Ganske; siblings, Donna (Darwin) Mecham, Cliff (Kate) Ganske; niece, Amelia (Eric) Lund and her children Luna, Lily and Landon.
He was preceded in death by his father, Donald; his uncle’s, Jack and Gene; and his aunt Joann.
Memorial contributions may be made in Brian’s honor to PeaceHealth Whatcom Hospice House. A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 to 5:00, Saturday, January 13 at the Skagit Casino, 5984 Darrk Lane, Bow, WA 98232. Please share your memories of Brian and sign the online guest register.
I learned a lot from Brian my family is sorry for your loss.
I am so sorry to hear about Brian. Some of my fondest memories with Brian were at The Elks and the Shriners breakfast. His big smile and generous personality were contagious. Thinking of you Joanie and all of your family.
One of the worlds best always had a smile and liked everyone
I enjoyed so many times with Brian, his quick wit and funny stories. was so sopprised to hear of his passing. best regards to the family and hope to make it to celebration of his life if there is one.
We did not know Brian, but we love his mother, Flo, brother, Cliff, and sister Donna. So sorry to hear of his passing and the big hole of grief for his mother, Flo. Our condolences to his wife and family members who will miss him greatly. May the Lord comfort you in your grief with his infinite love and caring.
Joanie and family,
Brian’s boyish smile, laughter and ability to work hard and still have fun will forever be missed by those who knew him. He was always so proud of his family. Hugs and prayers.
Grew up with. Brian &. Cliff. Sorry bro hear of his passing. Brian. Wolslegel
I always enjoyed working and not-working with Brian. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family in this difficult time.
Mom Flo, sweet Donna, and the rest of the Ganske clan- my love is boundless; you have my heart.
Linda
I will remember Brian for his smile and laughter, his honesty, and his friendship
We will miss you big boy
One of my favorite people and of course Joanie, there is a hole in the world without him, all my love to the family.
He was a good fishing buddy and always the life of the trip. We worked for him on many projects in Wyoming, Colorado and Utah and have fond memories of those days as well. I’ll miss him for sure. His family and friends will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Dear Joanie and family.
So sorry to hear about your loss.
We will always remember Brian as a fun, happy, generous, full of life person.
Thinking of all of you & sending many healing prayers.
RIP Brian
My condolences go out to the Ganske family . Brian will truly be missed by all , a true pipeliner that gave his heart to his profession . Brian meant a lot to a lot of people and will truly be missed . Jonnie thank you for all you did to help Brian be such a leader to so many .
God bless
He sure was a very fun guy, loved the fishing trips, and working with him on projects.
Brian we all miss you! I’m honored to have shared time both professionally and as good friends. Our adventures while serving the PLCA and our trips to Alaska salmon fishing. You were the best!
So many good memories of such a great guy deepest condolences to Joanie and family
Such a great guy! We shall miss him here in Arizona! Wonderful family. Our hugs and love go out to each one of them.
I miss him and always will. Love to you all