The family of Bryan David Geel, Jr. (Ghent, NY) is grieving his loss.  Bryan passed away at the young age of 36.  He is survived by his daughter Madison, his parents, Bryan Geel, Sr. (Susan) of Austerlitz and Rhonda Owen of Valatie, his grandmother Patricia Colburn, his sisters Maria and Caitlin, his brother Justin, three nieces, many Aunts, Uncles, cousins and friends.

Although his life held many chapters of struggle, Bryan took every step of it wrapped in the unwavering love of family and friends.  In the beginning, he was a well-loved, happy and intelligent little boy who enjoyed just about anything to do with power sports.  A boy who all but grew up in his father's lawn and garden store in Ghent.  Bryan was especially close during these years with his cousins, Briana and Jordan.  The three of them were inseparable and the best of friends.  Riding bikes, swimming, playing in the fields and enjoying the innocence of being children.  He was also especially close to his Aunts and Grandmother who were a constant presence in his life. He began working for his father at the age of 15 at ACP Power Equipment.  After he graduated from Chatham High in 2002, he began studying computer aided drafting at Hudson Valley Community College and then later became an iron worker with the Iron Workers Union.  A common thread throughout the stories being told of Bryan's life is the mention of gentleness.  Bryan was gentle by nature.  A young man who was never afraid to say, "I love you" or give a good hug to those he held dear, no matter who may be watching or listening.

Bryan battled demons for roughly the last 15 years of his life. He fought to leave them and succeeded several times, only to be brought to his knees again by their demands.  Bryan tried his best to take the steps to change the course of his life but ultimately the enemy schemes and out smarts even the most creative and determined individuals; as it did to Bryan.

We pray he be remembered not for the actions of the demons he fought within, but for the goodness of his soul. For on-line condolences visit wenkfuneralhome