Brian J. Gifford

STEVENS POINT –  Brian J. Gifford, age 54, died unexpectedly on Sunday, August 9, 2015, at his home in Stevens Point. 

Brian was born on January 9, 1961 in Portage, the son of Howard and Ethel (Jewell) Gifford.  Brian loved the outdoors, especially camping. He had been living in Stevens Point for the past few years, and had been employed at the Church of the Intercession, in Stevens Point. “No matter where you’ve been or who you are, you are welcome here!”      

Brian is survived by his children, Cara Gifford, of North Freedom, and Ryan (Katlynn) Gifford, of Portage; his mother, Ethel Jewell Gifford Smith; his grandson, Dominik, and step-granddaughter, Brooklyn; his brother, Mike (Suzanne) Gifford, of Kenosha; his sister, Susan (Jodi Ihde) Gifford, of Eau Claire; other relatives and many close friends.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Maria in 1986, his father, Howard W. Gifford, and his step-father, Byron “Tiny” Smith.    

Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2015, at the Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage, with the Rev. Tom Countryman officiating.  Inurnment will be private. Visitation will be held on Saturday, from 1:30 p.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home.