Tribute: Brian Zelizo

On January 30, 2000 Brian Louis Zelizo died from injury to his brain as a result of being hit by a taxi in New York City one week earlier. His death left many of us grieving the loss of a son, brother, relative or friend. However, Brian left behind a legacy that lives on in the lives that he touched so greatly in his short time with us.

Although Brian’s life was short, it was very rewarding. Upon receiving his degree in Finance from the University of Notre Dame, Brian went to work for Price Waterhouse Coppers in New York City. Just prior to his death, he had just begun a new job at Tower Hill Capital Group as an investment banker, In addition to his career. Brian loved to enjoy what the world had to offer him. He traveled extensively studying for a semester in Fremantle, Australia, driving cross-country after graduation from Notre Dame, and touring with his favorite band, Phish. He embraced life in New York City and the aura found within its streets. From the theatre, to sporting events, to a stroll down 5^th Avenue, Brian loved every minute of it.

Brian’s sincerity made you feel as though you were the only other person on earth when you were together. His enthusiasm was incredible and infectious. A planner and a schemer, Brian was always inventing way to meet life’s experiences head on while enjoying every minute along the way.

Brian’s untimely death is so difficult to accept and understand. It seems so unfair that he was taken from us all too soon and in such a sudden traumatic way. Brian, of course, would not want us to be sad, so we try to be strong until the day when we will be reunited with him in heaven. One of Brian’s dear friends read from the Prophet at his funeral.

When you part from your friend, you grieve not; for that which you love most in him may be clearer in his absence, as the mountain to the climber is clearer from the plain.

This quote has special meaning, as Brian would often say he felt closer to God while atop a mountain than any other place on earth. Brain’s goodness live on in all of the people whose live were touched by him.

The Guardian Brain Foundation encourages you to submit your words of encouragement to inspire others and provide emotional support.