Raised in Waterloo, Illinois, Bryan graduated from Waterloo High School in 1977. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Southeast Missouri State University in 1981, where he served as student body president and helped organize and charter the university’s first student-run credit union. He later earned his law degree from St. Louis University in 1984.

Bryan built a distinguished legal career specializing in commercial real estate law. He was a longtime partner at Paster West and Kraner in Clayton, which became Realty Law Partners in 2016. Bryan was widely respected by colleagues and clients alike. He found great fulfillment in his work and treasured the relationships he built throughout his career.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Bryan was actively involved in West Hills Church, where he faithfully served as volunteer facilities director for 26 years, stepping back from the role only recently at the end of 2025. His faith was a steady source of strength and inspiration, especially throughout his long illness.

Bryan’s greatest joy was his family. He and Joni shared a close and devoted partnership, truly inseparable in life and love. He was a hands-on, deeply engaged father who kept detailed journals for each of his children and had a gift for turning ordinary moments into meaningful adventures. From craft days to a Christmas tree filled with hand-painted ornaments, he created traditions that will be treasured for generations. Their home was always filled with love, laughter and activity and his 4 adult children were his greatest pride.

The family deeply cherishes the special time spent at their home on Lake of the Ozarks. Bryan brought those moments to life, organizing everything from jet skiing and boat rides to his famous firework shows. He filled the days with great food, laughter, and games.

 Bryan was an exceptional cook and enjoyed cooking for his family, especially hosting weekly “breakfast for dinner” nights for his grandchildren, where everyone could request their favorite meal. Thanksgiving was always a lively and joyful gathering, often with more than 30 family members around the table.

Bryan was a truly unique individual who made a lasting impression on anyone who was fortunate to cross his path – everyone has a favorite ‘Bryan’ story. He was an avid Bible reader and enjoyed quizzing his family with Bible trivia. He will be remembered for his contagious laugh, his love of a good practical joke, his ability to especially laugh at himself, his story telling, his warm and welcoming spirit, and his larger-than-life personality. He never met a stranger and had a remarkable way of lighting up every room he entered.

Bryan’s 15-year battle with cancer was marked by resilience, grace, and unwavering faith. His strength and trust in God were a source of comfort and inspiration to all who walked alongside him.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. followed by a Celebration of Life at 12:00 p.m. at Bopp Chapel, 10610 Manchester Road in Kirkwood, Missouri.

As an expression of sympathy, the family prefers memorial contributions to either: West Hills Church (13431 N Outer 40 Rd, Chesterfield, MO 63017) or the American Cancer Society.

2 Timothy 4:7: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

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2 Kings 20:6: “I will add fifteen years to your life.”