Brianne Fuzesy, 41

These words reflect on a person of infinite beauty inside and out, taken by pancreatic cancer in the prime of her life, who lived and loved to the fullest every day.

Brianne Fuzesy, 41, was a Whitefish, Montana, native spending her childhood on the crystal waters of Whitefish Lake. If you knew Brianne, I don’t have to tell you — everything she touched turned to gold.

If you’re reading this in Bismarck, North Dakota, you maybe knew Brianne at UMary in the early 2000s, as a substitute music teacher, a sales rep for Eckroth Music, or at her dream job — teaching brass and audio technology at BSC. Brianne was a proud and brilliant musician, playing the trumpet, voice, steel pan, bassoon, bass guitar, trombone, French horn, recorder — the list goes on. She had a chair in Big Al’s Big Band, Bis-Man Wind Ensemble, the BMSO, Missouri River Community Band, West River Winds, and Missouri River Chamber Orchestra, amongst others.

Her return to the Flathead Valley of Montana brought new radiance. She relished the challenge of theatre pit orchestra, playing in shows for UMary, BSC, and FVCC. She loved her time in the Community Band as both a band member and part of the board of directors, in addition to serving as their technology and audio coordinator. She also shared her talents with the Bavarian Echoes, CFalls Choir, and the DLO Big Band. Her crowning achievement was her time as Herald the Hark for the Whitefish Winter Carnival. She loved being part of the Royal Court.

Brianne was a skilled craftswoman. She could always see a better way, and had the vision and capability to make it happen.

She was a natural tech wizard. Classroom tech, audio, 3D printing, graphics, robotics, and programming. Her work as a technology specialist for Whitefish School District was a dream come true. She was the proudest Bulldog, so excited to be part of the school system again. Brianne lived for solving technical problems and sharing new info, and she loved the good vibes of her work community. She spoke with gratitude of her music teachers — Mrs. Hashley, Mr. Klassen, and Mr. Clawson. She always gave them credit for her success as a musician and educator.

We can remember her by supporting learning, teaching, and the Arts. Support all the local music ensembles you can find. Fill your souls with the joy of helping others.

Our family offers sincere gratitude to all the medical staff at Logan Health who worked passionately to offer countless interventions to soften her struggles during treatment — Hematology/Oncology, Dr. Jose Ness, Palliative care, Hospice, the Infusion Staff, and the incredible nurses and support staff. You continuously renewed our faith in humanity on the worst days of our lives.

Brianne is survived by countless family and friends, the music communities in Bismarck, North Dakota and the Flathead Valley, the staff and students at Swan River School, the Whitefish School District, and so many others.

Condolences may be sent to the family at 220 Westland Dr., Kalispell Montana 59901.

The family is being cared for by Darlington Cremation and Burial Services.

Plans for a celebration of life are forthcoming.