We are mourning the passing of Brian Hall, 56, who died at home Friday, Jan. 19, 2018, surrounded by his wife Tuire, son Sampo and daughter Seidi. Brian was born on Oct. 21, 1961, in Schenectady, New York, to Jewel and Stanley Hall. Brian was a brewer, stay-at-home dad, musician, radio show host and hockey player. He graduated from Cooperstown Central High School in 1979. In 1983 he graduated from St. Lawrence University with a B.A. in English and later attended the University of Montana. After college, Brian founded Cooperstown Brewing Company with his father, but returned to Missoula in 2000.

Devoted to family, Brian loved being a father. He was immensely proud of his children and the people they became as young adults, while wishing they could always remain small. He passed on the gift of music to Sampo and Seidi. Brian was always up for a good walk in the woods with friends and his dog. Brian and Tuire were best friends and frequently traveled together. Trips to Sedona, Targhee, Pacific Northwest and Europe provide everlasting family memories.

Friends remember the serious and playful side of Brian. Humble to a fault, Brian was his own worst critic, but a loyal and considerate friend. He could joke with the best of them. Brian’s infectious laughter added to the enjoyment of all.

Brian had a tremendous passion, talent and ear for music, playing regularly with friends in bluegrass, old time country, and African styles. He primarily played mandolin, guitar and fiddle, but dabbled in several other instruments. He had a keen sense of musical subtleties and a way of lifting the quality of music played by others. He was especially knowledgeable about bands and traditions, and shared these traditions on his Missoula Community Radio show, Bluegrass Breakdown. Brian also loved the game of hockey and will be missed in hockey circles around the area. He left a deep impression for his big smile, nervous energy, intelligence and quirky sense of humor. Above all, he was a good man.

Never one to leave a party early, Brian fought his cancer with grace, humor and a fair number of swear words. Along with his wife and children, Brian leaves behind his parents and sisters, Sandy Barry and NJ Burr, and their families. He had a wide network of friends and all will feel his absence deeply.

Family and friends will gather for a celebration of Brian’s life at a later date. Donations in Brian’s name can be made to Missoula Community Radio 1055kfgm.org or Pancreatic Cancer Action Network pancan.org.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Brian V Hall, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.