Tribute for Brian M. Farrell Sr. (Guest book)
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Welcome to the memorial page for

Brian M. Farrell Sr.

October 26, 1946 ~ March 7, 2020 (age 73) 73 Years Old
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Message from peter fisher
July 11, 2020 10:18 PM

Brian, I have not heard from you in several months and now I know why... I always counted you as a good friend through the many years at Aetna and after always keeping me informed of the passing of our many friends..now I learn from others of your leaving... albeit a bit late (the main messenger is missing) Sad is one word but another is gratefulness... for knowing you. To your family who were the lucky ones to share your life over so many years I offer my thoughtful prayers....so long Brian..,see you later.
Peter
Message from Eric Beebe
March 25, 2020 6:08 PM

Sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
candle beige
A candle was lit by Karen Cowdell on March 19, 2020 6:52 PM
Message from Carlos M Santiago
March 13, 2020 6:45 PM

No words to expres our sorrow with the passing of Brian, a dear friend and part of our family. We will always treasure the memories of good times, laughter and love that we shared. Carlos, Marta and family.
Message from John Cummings
March 12, 2020 4:17 PM

Barr:

I was totally shocked and saddened to learn of Brian’s passing this week. I can’t stop thinking about our times together - playing basketball and baseball at CBA and the hell we raised at Siena.

God bless you and your family. Please know that I will be forever grateful for being your friend and Brian’s and for the wonderful memories we shared over the years.

Rest in peace Brian, you will never be forgotten.

John Cummings
Message from Irfan
March 11, 2020 6:06 PM

Brian was one of the kindest person I ever met in my life. He always talked about his family and especially about all of the grandchildren. I certainly will miss talking to him about random things!!! My deepest condolences to the family for the loss. May God bless you Brian - Rest in peace. Amen.
Message from IRA B LOBEL
March 11, 2020 5:12 PM

I just saw the tribute to Brian in the Albany Times Union. I have fond memories of the entire Farrell family from the time when Brian and I were little boys. My brother and I lived a couple blocks from the Farrells. Alan and Biran were the same age. I was two years younger. He was a great baseball player at Whitehall Little League and was an even better basketball player at CBA. More importantly, I remember him and all of the Farrells as wonderful human beings. My deepest sympathies to the entire family.
Message from Bob Sullivan
March 11, 2020 5:10 PM

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Brian's passing. I had the privilege of not just knowing him for many years at Aetna and Travelers but reporting directly to him for a period of time. As has been stated by many, he truly was one of the good guys. He was supportive of everyone in his organization(s) and did so much for so many people. I have never known a nicer, kinder person than Brian. He was truly one of a kind and will be greatly missed. My condolences to the family.
candle beige
A candle was lit by Wes & Sandy Clauss on March 11, 2020 5:03 PM
Expression of Sympathy

An A Beautiful Heart Bouquet was sent on March 11, 2020

Dearest Marianne, Brian, Paul, Sean, JoJo & Michael Sending our love & deepest condolences on the death of your beloved husband, father & grandfather. Your family's in our hearts & prayers. With Love, Liz & Vin McMahon

Expression of Sympathy

A Beautiful in Blue was sent by Douglas Bokoske and Family on March 11, 2020
Expression of Sympathy

A Love’s Tapestry was ordered on March 11, 2020
Expression of Sympathy

A Beautiful in Blue was ordered on March 10, 2020
Expression of Sympathy

A Morning Bright was ordered on March 10, 2020
Message from Kevin Nicholson
March 10, 2020 5:05 PM

The more one reflects on the blessings they've enjoyed in this life, the more you come to appreciate rare relationships like the few as special as the one with Brian (if you're very luck). When I think of Brian I can recall anytime we'd be walking towards each other down one of the long hallways of Aetna; we would both be smiling from ear-to-ear without a word being spoken. You just knew you were about to experience laughter and wit that made Brian, well, Brian. Brian was a master aggregator of relationships and he was as genuine as one can get. He and I worked together on special project for 90 days and I learned so much from him during that time that I often still view that as one of my best experiences of my professional life. He was a teacher and mentor to me and I will be forever grateful for having the privilege of call him friend.

My deepest condolences to the family during this time of loss.
Message from John S. Backer
March 10, 2020 3:54 PM

I had the pleasure of working with Brian at Aetna and Travelers for many years, and we stayed in touch after retirement as members of the board of the Aetna Retirees Association. I have never met anyone who was more energetic or more liked and respected than Brian. He always had a positive attitude and was a true pleasure to work with, the most energetic “can do” person I have known. His passing is a great loss to his family, his associates and his many friends, all of whom are fortunate to have known him.
Expression of Sympathy

A Beautiful in Blue was ordered on March 10, 2020
Message from George L. Blick
March 10, 2020 1:50 PM

Brian was for a certainty one of the good guys.
Trustworthy and if he said he would he did.
I enjoyed oud long friendship and even the rare times we disagreed.
My deepest sympathies to his family.
George
candle beige
A candle was lit by Sean McMahon on March 10, 2020 7:52 AM
Message from Margie (Czajkowski) Duszak
March 9, 2020 11:06 PM

Dear Marianne and family , so sorry for
your loss. May you find peace in your memories. RIP Brian
With sympathy, Margie (Czajkowski) Duszak
Expression of Sympathy

A Dreams From the Heart Bouquet was ordered on March 9, 2020
Message from David Huber
March 9, 2020 8:58 PM

To the greatest Little League coach of all time. I enjoyed learning from you, laughing with you and having the chance to have known you. My last memory of you Mr. Farrell was at my dads funeral. You gave me a big hug and we laughed. I so needed and appreciated that. My thoughts are with the entire Farrell family.
Message from Alice Fitzpatrick
March 9, 2020 7:22 PM

To Lemonade Lucy and the boys...
Where to begin about my memories of Brian?
Friends since high school; St. James Bazaar each Fall; basketball games at School 23, summer nights at Kessler's, the night he met Barr; VI and CBA canteens, driving down 9W to the Center Inn when BRI was working; winter "sliding" in Stretch's 8F-4717; birthdays, Siena BB games and mixers; marriage to the love of his life; the birth of 5 sons, the loss of 2 brothers; trips to Bristol for a weekend visit; son's marriages; birth of grandchildren; fun at Misquamicutt Beach; the list goes on.
Brian was a loyal friend and man of faith; a wonderful brother, husband, father, and grandfather. He was an athlete, coach, successful businessman, civic and community leader, fundraiser, and marriage minister. He was a joker, a prankster; simply put, a good man and great guy, beloved by all who knew him. In the decades I've known him, I never heard an unkind word spoken about him.
I will miss you, Brian. I know you've made the starting 5 in heaven. Rest in peaceful sleep.
Much love to Marianne, Brian Jr., Sean, Paul, JoJo, and Michael. 💔
Message from Alice Fitzpatrick
March 9, 2020 6:45 PM

To Lemonade Lucy and the boys...
Where to begin about the Brian I knew? So many memories; friends since we were 15. St. James Bazaar, summer nights at Kessler's, meeting Barr, VI and CBA canteens, winter sliding in Stretch's 8F-4717, trips down to the Center Inn when Bri was working, birthdays, Siena mixers, marriage to the love of his life, birth of 5 sons, road trips to Bristol to visit, son's weddings, births of grandchildren, fun at Misquamicutt Beach, friend's funerals. Brian was a loyal friend, wonderful husband, father, brother and grandfather; a successful businessman, a civic and community leader, an athlete, a coach, fundraiser and marriage minister. A joker, a prankster, but beloved by all who knew him. I don't think in the decades I have known him, I ever heard an unkind word about Brian. He was that kind of guy. I will miss you, my friend. Rest in peaceful sleep. Much Love to Marianne, Brian Jr., Sean, Paul , JoJo, and Michael. 💔
Message from William S. "Sandy" Rodgers
March 9, 2020 4:19 PM

My deepest sympathy to all of Brian's family. Brian was described well by 2 persons who immediately responded when I advised them - both referred to Brian as a real gentleman. That is a very good descriptin of Brian, and summarizes so much that could be said about him, especially in our current world.
Message from Joan & Rick Lindquist
March 9, 2020 3:34 PM

Paul, Lisa & family,
We are so sorry for the loss of your Dad. Let your many loving memories carry you through this difficult time.
Sending Prayers to all🌹
Joan & Rick
Message from Bob Vartanian
March 9, 2020 2:21 PM

Brian was a wonderful man and clearly known for helping many people throughout their career and in life. He understood humanity better than anyone. He was my first boss at Aetna in Home Office and taught me an important lesson - what was important and what was not. My sincere condolences to Brian’s entire family.
Message from Thomas Sergi
March 9, 2020 2:00 PM

My deepest condolences to your family for your loss. Prayers go out to your family at this time .
Message from Vickie Sherman
March 9, 2020 1:46 PM

I am so saddened to hear about Brian. Brian was a leading presence at the Aetna and Travelers, always willing to listen to my concerns. My deepest sympathy to your family.
Message from Bill Quinn
March 9, 2020 12:23 PM

Today I found out a part of me passed on to the next life, my friend,Brian Farrell. We were as close as two friends could be; we played a lot of basketball together .We didn’t have to speak... we just knew what the other guy was thinking. We had an unbreakable bond.
Then he fell in love with a cute little blonde and he was head over heels in love. . Barr was his life from then on for 50+ years. I remember Brian would do whatever he could to be with her and we all helped with that goal. One night Barr was babysitting on the second story apt and Rick Manhey and I took a ladder from a neighbor who was painting his house so that Brian could climb up to small window to see his love. As was the case with us most of the time, it didn’t finish well and Brian went head first into the toilet.....but he was in and we raced the ladder back.
I always missed our times growing up together. Brian was the first of our friends to show us what “real love” was about. Thanks for that Brian and Barr!!
I hope He is playing 18 holes on the best course in heaven. God bless you, Brian... I will miss you.
Expression of Sympathy

A Beautiful in Blue was ordered on March 9, 2020
Message from Leslie Lerner
March 9, 2020 10:58 AM

My sincere condolences to Mrs. Farrell and the entire Farrell family. I met Brian when I went to work at the Aetna many years ago. He was a compassionate, considerate and a special person. He was especially helpful and kind to me when my son passed away 28 years ago. I will always remember his thoughtfulness at that time. He was a special man and I will miss him.
candle beige
A candle was lit by Jim McNally on March 9, 2020 10:54 AM
Message from Cindy MacDonald
March 9, 2020 10:25 AM

My condolences to the entire family. My children were always proud to spend time and share memories with you all. We have had some great times together.
Expression of Sympathy

A Sunny Memories was ordered on March 9, 2020
candle beige
A candle was lit by Tracy Hall on March 9, 2020 9:48 AM
Expression of Sympathy

A Your Light Shines was ordered on March 9, 2020
Expression of Sympathy

A Garden Cross was ordered on March 9, 2020
Message from diannekayo@gmail.com
March 9, 2020 7:57 AM

I am so sorry for your loss .
Expression of Sympathy

A Dreams From the Heart Bouquet was ordered on March 9, 2020
candle beige
A candle was lit by The Mann family on March 9, 2020 7:38 AM
Message from Gary Mann
March 9, 2020 7:35 AM

"One of a kind" and "the best" are just two terms to describe my dear friend Brian. We met in July of 1977 after both of us transferred into the Aetna home office. I sat next to him for years. We became good friends and great work mates. He later became my manager first at Aetna then hired me at Travelers so I could return to CT and be close to my family. He always supported me and made me look better than I would alone. He made working fun even in difficult situations. In fact he made everyone within his large organization look better. I was lucky to watch his 5 great boys grow up and into great men, husbands and fathers... thanks to Marianne and his excellent parenting. He created opportunities for many of us after retirement through his consulting business... believe it or not, again made it fun to audit boring claim files. I miss him, but will remember him by keeping in touch through his boys. Rest in peace.
Expression of Sympathy

An A Beautiful Heart Bouquet was ordered on March 9, 2020
Message from Rich & Joan Colbert
March 9, 2020 7:11 AM

Marianne and family,

Joan and I are in our South Carolina home and are deeply saddened to have just read of Brian's death. We will always fondly remember his warm smile and the wonderful way he managed our son Tim at Edgewood Little League where fun always came first. May Brian be numbered among the Saints in Heaven. Godspeed.
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A candle was lit by Rich & Joan Colbert on March 9, 2020 6:56 AM
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A candle was lit by The Marinello Family on March 9, 2020 5:13 AM
Message from Ralph Marinello
March 9, 2020 5:13 AM

Among the BEST to ever grace us with his presence. An outstanding gentleman, mentor and wonderful friend. Brian, you always made me smile.
Our deepest condolences to the entire family.
You and Brian will be in our prayers.
Ralph & Nina Marinello
Message from Rick Manhey CBA ‘64
March 8, 2020 10:35 PM

Words can never express what I am feeling about the lost of my world class buddy, Brian. The times we had together from the 1st days at CBA on the hoop court till the day he met his wife, Barr, to our time in Lake George in recent years. The stories could go on forever. Everyone loved Brian. He was quite the character and a great friend. I will miss him dearly. Thoughts and prayers to the family.
Rick the Quick
Message from Bill Staehle
March 8, 2020 9:00 PM

Brian could spot a phony a mile away, which was one of the attributes that made him a great Claim professional. I met Brian in 1994, and though we were about the same age, he always seemed senior to me in terms of his experience and ability to navigate the corporate landscape. Teaming with Gary Mann after the Aetna-Travelers merger, he managed many of the highest exposure cases for the Company with great success. He once told me and an outside attorney that he'd treat us to dinner if we could bring a case in for under $6M, not because he though we needed an incentive, but because he liked linking performance and rewards. We couldn't, but we came close - no dinner. My NJ office and I worked hard to meet Brian's expectations. There was no exceeding them. He was his own person. At a meeting once in Fort Lauderdale, he was the only one to wear shorts. For Brian, that was forgivable, maybe even expected. For anyone else, it would have been blasphemy. After he retired from the Company, he hosted for several years reunion outings for the Aetna Retirees Association, of which he was a founding member. I was not an Aetna retiree, far from it, but I always endeavored to attend. Brian had magnetism that pulled in me and many others. He was hard to say no to. On one occasion, after arriving, we were rained out. I was prepared to forfeit my registration fee, but Brian made sure we all got our money back and then treated us to lunch. He was generous. People such as Brian come along once in a generation. We kept in touch from time to time. I will miss not having him with us. -- Bill Staehle
Message from Glenn Milham
March 8, 2020 8:31 PM

Brian:

You may remember, on the occasion of my retirement, I wrote to thank you for the many years of friendship, guidance and advice and to offer my assistance should you ever require a heartfelt encomium (and yeah, that's a McGehee word) to shoehorn you through the Pearly Gates. You were never going to need it, of course, but here it is anyway.

Over the 25 years we worked together you were a guiding light for me and countless others; always a ready ear, a generous spirit, a wellspring of encouragement and a model of efficiency. It was immensely reassuring to know we could come to you for a fair hearing and honest assessment of any sort of problem. Top that with a sunny good nature and genuine concern for others and you've got someone I'll always remember with fondness and appreciation. I'll really miss you, Chief; may the hills of Heaven be as brilliantly green and welcoming as you richly deserve them to be.

GEM
Message from Tom Lavery
March 8, 2020 7:25 PM

Brian & I grew up in the Aetna Claim Dept. We were claim reps together, Brian in Newburg and I in White Plains New York. We worked together from 1969 until we both retired in the mid 2000's . Brian was one of a kind and a great friend and colleague. He will be sorely missed! My condolences to His wife, Brian Jr. and the rest of his family.

Tom Lavery
Message from Jim Urso
March 9, 2020 8:55 AM

Like so many others,I too had the pleasure and privilege of knowing Brian as a manager and a friend. Few people have had so much positive influence on so many people in a professional and personal setting. Words are inadequate in describing the totality of this fine man.










Message from Nikki Landrette
March 8, 2020 7:17 PM

Brian and Family,I was deeply sadden to hear of the passing of your dad,condolence to you and family,remember all the great memories of him and keep them close to your heart,he'll be your guarding Angle watching over you,God Bless. Nikki Landrette.
candle green
A candle was lit by Jeff beaucar🍀🍀🍀🍀 on March 8, 2020 7:05 PM
Expression of Sympathy

A Gracious Lavender Basket was ordered on March 8, 2020
Message from Michael Giuffrida
March 8, 2020 6:07 PM

Ah, you cannot know how sad Brian's passing makes me. Many, many years together, and so many stories. My nickname for Brian was 'Brain' which was what I always called him, and legitimately so. His native intelligence, sense of humor, open-mindedness, and sense of fair-dealing made our years together a pleasure for me despite the many challenges thrown at us by the various heads of Claim we supported. I know the good Lord will welcome my friend with open arms. My prayers are with the entire Farrell family. God bless you in your time of loss.
Message from Jeff Stevens
March 8, 2020 5:39 PM

My sincere condolences to Brian’s family. I will remember him fondly from his days at Aetna and Travelers. He was one of the best!
Expression of Sympathy

An Ocean Breeze Spray was sent by The Clark's & The Hoadey's on March 8, 2020
Message from Larry Cohen
March 8, 2020 4:51 PM

Ruth and I are so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. I knew him as both a consummate insurance professional-but more importantly as very proud Dad and Grandad. He will be missed by many. May he Rest In Peace.
Message from Laura Marriott
March 8, 2020 4:40 PM

My condolences to the Farrell family. May God comfort you in your time of loss. He went to a place where he is waiting for the day when we will all be together again! Uncle Dennis and Aunt Kathy and Kristin and Dennis, I love you. May God cover you with his peace.
Message from Don Kenyon
March 8, 2020 3:54 PM

My sincere condolences to Brian’s family. Brian was a true gentleman and one of the truly good guys. The family will be in my prayers.
Message from Michael Werner
March 8, 2020 3:08 PM

Sorry to hear of Brian’s passing. I met him back in the ‘70s when he worked on Bill Stortz’ campaigns. Later, we coached against each other in the Little League City Series. Of course, he never let me forget who won! A great guy with a great sense of humor. He will be missed by a lot of people.
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