Obituary: Brian John Conlon - Class of 1965

MADISON - Brian John Conlon [age 67] was born on July 9, 1946, to Lawrence and Elaine Conlon who together, with his brothers, Thomas, Christopher and Russell, raised Brian in a loving and caring family. He passed away on Monday, Feb. 10, 2014. Brian was born with a birth defect that caused him to be mentally challenged his entire life. His parents and brothers were keenly aware of Brian's challenges and fought alongside Brian to be sure he had the same advantages in life that you and I do. Through the tenacious, loving work of his mother and father, Brian was taught how to be a productive individual. Brian graduated from Edgewood Campus School and Central High School in Madison. He graduated from Goodwill Technical School in Milwaukee, where he learned the craft of small appliance repair. When he completed his course, he started a small business in our parents' basement and called it "Brian's Lamp Repair Service". Brian canvased the neighborhood, distributing announcements of his business. His business was so successful that he affectionately "hired" his father to help him keep up with the demand. Further in life, Brian was employed by the United States Armed Forces Institute and the United States Postal Service. After retiring from the Postal Service, Brian worked with his brother, Chris, at Anteco Pharma. Brian was a great "tinkerer." He loved to take things apart just to see how they worked. Getting them back together was another story. He enjoyed woodworking, electronics and music. There was always a great Sinatra or Crosby song in the background at Brian's home. Lawrence Welk was Brian's favorite show when we were growing up, which is why we had to buy a Dodge.

Brian is survived by his two children that he dearly loved until the day of his death, John (Amy) Conlon and their two children, and Judy (Mike) Mueller and their two children. He is also survived by his three brothers, Thomas (Patricia), Christopher (Margaret) and Russell; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Lawrence and Elaine Conlon. Brian had many great, supportive friends that his family would like to thank for being so special to Brian throughout his life.

Brian had many challenges in life, most were met and won, and some were not. He never gave up living life and meeting his challenges. Brian will be remembered by his family and friends as a hardworking, loving, generous and supportive friend. We all love you and miss you Brian. Say hello to Mom and Dad for all of us. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at BLESSED SACRAMENT CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2131 Rowley Ave., Madison, at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2014, with Father Steve Kuhlmann presiding. A visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m. until time of Mass on Thursday. Burial will be at Sunset Memory Gardens following lunch.

Originally published in the Wisconsin State Journal on February 12, 2014. Submitted by Michael Vahldieck (Class of 1968).

Brian Conlon is listed in Madison Board of Education records as a member of the Class of 1965.