Brent Jon Malesich's Obituary
Heaven has gained a special soul; Brent Malesich passed away on Dec 23rd at Good Samaritan hospital with his devoted husband, Stuart Tenney, by his side.
Brent was born and raised in Butte, MT, as the youngest of three kids. Brent was wise beyond his years and exhibited sophisticated interests. He enjoyed a small circle of close friends and cherished spending time with his family, especially his grandparents and his Mom. He began working at a young age to support his exquisite style and love of fine cars. As a teen, he worked at local businesses from Lydia’s to Safeway, entering the corporate world shortly after graduating from Butte High. His professional life began at Montana Power, leading him beyond Butte to Bozeman, where he worked for several years.
The allure of sunshine and coastal living led Brent to pursue a career in Seattle. He began this chapter in commercial banking, enjoying the sector for over twenty years. He built friend networks and enjoyed all Seattle had to offer from dance clubs to fine dining; car shows, garden shows, and even the simplicity of a pumpkin patch would delight him.
Brent lived life fully and on his terms. He shared his views on all topics with passion and conviction, making for vibrant conversations and enlivened social media posts. Brent was an encyclopedia of sorts, doing extensive research on any topic he found exciting and happily sharing his knowledge with anyone who was trying to buy, fix or understand something intricate. Brent had a giant heart and a strong conviction. He was refined yet gentle in nature, making him easy and engaging to talk to; comfortable in any crowd.
Life became even sweeter when Brent met and married his great love, Stuart. Together since 2009, they embarked on an adventure-filled life completed when they added their beloved Italian Greyhound ‘Trigger’. They loved time with family and friends, remodeling and decorating their homes, gardening, and traveling the world. Brent loved long scenic rides in his treasured automobiles and traveled far and wide across the United States. With ‘Stu’ by his side, he also began exploring international travel and had many adventures in North America and Europe, most recently trekking throughout Ireland.
Stuart and Brent were true life partners. When Brent was diagnosed with cancer, Stu devotedly and lovingly took great care - supporting and encouraging him - giving us eight more years to enjoy with a legend.
Life will never be quite the same without his class, clever wit, style, kindness, and genuine care for others. He made everyone near him feel special and important; we are blessed by his life and treasure all the memories. Quoting a line from his favorite movie, Steel Magnolias, “I’d rather have thirty minutes of wonderful than a lifetime of nothing special.” Brent lived an extraordinary and full life indeed.
Brent is preceded in death by his grandparents, Thomas & Reva / Joe & Emma, and his father, Frederick. He is survived by his cherished husband, Stuart; his mother, Marilyn; his brother Jim, his sister Dana, multiple nieces and nephews and his dog and best friend, Trigger. He also leaves countless friends from around the globe who will miss him dearly.
There will be a celebration of life services for Brent in both Seattle and Butte in the late spring or summer. If it is in your heart to do something for Brent, in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to http://www.itgreyhoundnw.org.
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