Brian Lenz

Brian Edward Lenz

September 15th, 1968-March 15th, 2014

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Brian Edward Lenz passed away Saturday March 15th, 2014. He was a son, brother, husband, father and uncle, who will certainly be missed.Over the past two years he had been battling against a rare form of cancer called Multiple Myeloma. He put up a good fight against this disease, but in the end he was ready to be with the Lord. Brian is survived by his wife Victoria Lenz, son Christopher Lenz, parents Dan and Karan Kunz, mother in law Dina Cherepinsky, siblings Lori Lybarger, Rob and Susan Kunz, and Jody and Gary Wilmoth as well as his many nieces and nephews and great nephew that he loved dearly.

Brian will forever be known as the best cook many of us knew. World famous for his barbeque baby back ribs, porksteaks and chili. His hobbies included cooking, gardening and reading Christian books. Not only was he known as a great cook, but as our families handyman. If you needed something fixed he always jumped on the opportunity to make himself useful and help you out, even if he had to jimmy it to get it fixed.

Brian was very easy-going. He never met a stranger that he wouldn’t talk to, there was just something about him that made you want to talk and listen to him for hours on end. He especially loved his three Dachshunds, playing in the yard with them and throwing the ball around and on float trips tossing them in the river and swimming with them. His favorite activity was hosting little dinner parties on summer nights, barbecuing late into the night while listening to classic rock tunes and conversing with his guests outside, just enjoying life. And that’s how we want you to remember my Dad, Brian Lenz. the healthy, good looking guy with lots of amazing qualities, self-nicknamed “Big Daddy”, at “big daddy’s stud service”.

13 Comments

  1. Lori on March 18, 2014 at 12:00 pm

    Christopher, this is how we all want to remember Brian. It is perfectly written and a wonderful look into his life. He loved you and your Mom with all his heart and was so proud of his family.
    I love you so much and we will all get through this one day at a time.
    Love,
    Aunt Loti



  2. Ian Johnson on March 18, 2014 at 1:28 pm

    Im very sorry for your loss..i didn’t know Brian personally, but I felt like I did with all the pics and story’s that Vickie would post….im sure he’s cooking ribs right now for God and his Angels. ..God Bless you Vickie and your family



  3. Joe McCary on March 18, 2014 at 1:43 pm

    Victoria, I hope Brian’s passing gives you a much deserved rest, a break from the front lines of that battle. I didn’t know Brian, but I feel like he is part family. MM is a nasty disease, they think they are so close to a cure, but we all just wonder. I know from my own situation that Brian’s life was so much better with you as his caregiver. You deserve a medal! I hope you can find the peace you so deserve.



  4. Brian Buchholz on March 18, 2014 at 1:44 pm

    I met Brian in the limousine business which was a rollercoaster ride for any one in that industry. Brian got out of the industry and I followed shortly after.

    We reconnected a couple times of the past year when we talked for a moment at Westport Plaza. Then the night of the Tornado that hit Hazelwood, Brian and I huddled downstairs at the meeting we were at as the storm passed over head. We talked a lot and I gave him a ride home since Vic was at home with no lights, her mom, and the dogs.

    Brian and I shared many conversations on fb keeping in touch. When the last responses I got were about the cancer coming back, I continued to leave comments and posts when I was able to letting him know he had my thoughts and prayers.

    God bless you, many see it as you lost a battle with cancer but I see it as you won the battle of understanding your purpose. To believe in God, share his words, make peace with those around you, yourself, and God. In losing my only child I continue experience loss every day. My continued thoughts and prayers will be with your family. I happy for you that you won your battle and no longer are in pain, I hurt for the loss of your family and friends who rely on you. You will be with us on our journey and we greatly appreciate those moments when you will remind us you are with us.

    God Bless,
    Brian Buchholz



  5. Jonathan Jones on March 18, 2014 at 2:47 pm

    Like someone else said, I didn’t know Brian personally and only met him once, but as a fellow Believer and member of SLFC, I feel sorrow for the family and friends of those dear to Brian. I can only pray that God gives you all a clear mind and peaceful heart during this period of transition, as Brian has retired to his ‘vacation home’ in Paradise.

    I hope that knowing that he’s been made perfect and is enjoying the view right about now, is of some comfort. And I hope that knowing that there are many people who are concerned is of some comfort as well.

    I wish Brian’s extended family and friends the peace of God which passes all understanding, and I pray for a healthy grieving process for all.

    May God richly bless each of you with His amazing grace.



  6. Alice Carr on March 18, 2014 at 2:54 pm

    Victoria , I am so sorry for your loss but very happy to see the many wonderful memories you will have. Life is short and Brian and you lived it and made it special. Hugs and Prayers are with you and Chris.



  7. Mike Compton on March 18, 2014 at 4:51 pm

    Victoria, it hard to put into words a condolence that does not seem empty or trite, but KNOW that you are being lifted up in prayer and that God will watch over you and comfort you. Brian is now pain free, he has his legs back and is in the ever loving arms of Jesus. I personally cant think of a better thing! HUGS to you and the family and if you need ANYTHING, please let us know

    Mike



  8. Kate Turner on March 18, 2014 at 5:26 pm

    Many fond memories of hanging out with you guys and eating Brian’s awesome cooking. He was always very welcoming. He will be missed.
    You guys are in my thoughts, always. Love you.



  9. Joan Lenz on March 18, 2014 at 8:02 pm

    Dear Vicky and Christopher, I am so very sorry for your loss and know how very hard it is for you accept. But we also must believe he is in a better place now, the suffering this past two years is over. Brian was a delightful personality and your wonderful memories will help you through this painful time. I’ll bet Uncle Bob and Brian are comparing notes on their BBQ ribs, of course Uncle Bob was sure that his were the best! Love to you and all your family, Aunt Joan.



  10. Joe Stout on March 18, 2014 at 10:25 pm

    Brian, we never met. I went to grade school with Vicki. After meeting up Vicki in FB I did get to see how much love you two have. Sometimes it seemed you had to step aside for Vickie’s love of the Cardinals and Stan the Man, that had to be tough. Got to know you through your pictures. Everyone of them showed your strength and love. Even in the hospital when times where tough. Thank you for showing the world how strong a person can fight even in the toughest times. Vickie, thank you for showing the world your strength and love also. You are both angels for us to learn from.

    Joe Stout



  11. Darrin & Crista Harnetiaux on March 19, 2014 at 8:51 pm

    Vick, we are both so sorry. You guys had a wonderful life and I am sorry I never got to experience his cooking! Darrin and Crista



  12. Gina Koerner on March 19, 2014 at 9:42 pm

    Victoria & Christopher my heart aches for you & yet also smiles & rejoices with you that he is out of pain & is just in his new eternal home & will see you guys again one day. What a beautifully written tribute to him & his memory. Prayers & hugs for you & your family. <3
    Love
    The Koerners
    Terry, Gina, Nate, Alyssa & Maddie



  13. Renee on July 17, 2014 at 4:16 pm

    Lori,
    After all these months I just saw the news. I’m so sorry for your loss. Take one day at a time. It doe get better.
    Love,
    Renee



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