Lt. Col. (Ret.) Brian Robbins Downey

Lotte, Patrick and family no words can express how deeply sorry I am for your loss. I had the pleasure of knowing Brian the past several years, my first memory being a winter survival camping trip he was attending with Patrick. I thought what a crazy brave man he was...in the cold, with all those little guys! Brian dealt with all of us girls hanging out there laughing, carrying on and having a great time til all hours of the night. He probably learned more about knitting from our book, knitting and wine nights than he ever dreamed he would know! Brian was so easy going, hanging out with us some, popping in and out. He always welcomed us warmly into his home. What a great man! More than anything, it was easy to see his love and devotion to Lotte and Patrick. Brian, you will be greatly missed.

Dearest Lotte, little sis, & Patrick, With you we were devastated when we heard the news of your so beloved Brian having passed away totally unexpected. Brian was a modest, most gentle, sympathetic guy a great hubby for you Lotte and the best dad you could have wished for, Patrick. I know it is hard now, but the day will come you see what a wonderful live Brian has given you. I know he was proud to be your husband/ your dad. I am so glad, that every time we visited the USA we met up with you guys as being together was difficult due to that huge pool of water in between us. I remember once when we stayed with you in Alameda and you and Brian took Brigitte & myself for a wine tour. There was that winery where we had lunch in the garden and the signs stated we could not bring our own stuff with us only what we bought there. We bought food, but Brian went to the car put a bottle of wine we bought elsewhere in a neutral paper bag, put on his most innocent face and offered us a drink. Time has past and Brigitte passed away not all that long ago and I found Liz (correction: she handpicked me). We were supposed to head for the USA only a few days from today and meeting up with you in July when Brian and Liz could have met and we would have spent a great time together. I am sure they would have gotten along very well as they both are easy going. Although we did not see much of each other I will miss you terribly. Peter & Liz

Brian was a great neighbor , growing up in East Lansing , Mi. Our families continued that friendship on through the years . My outstanding memory of Brian was when our son , Joe , was in Cub Scouts in Holt , Mi, and I was in charge of running the Pinewood Derby Races. I was looking for Judges for the race and I called Brian to see if he was interested . He said absolutely and came in full uniform , [The boys went nuts ! ] and he brought a whole box of treats for the scouts ,pencils , mugs, etc. from The National Guard. I think we did this for 2-3 years back in the mid 90's and enjoyed his company everytime . Joe also admired Brian and looked forward to seeing him there and I think that in part encouraged him to become an Eagle Scout . He was always a good friend growing up in the Flower Pot . Our thoughts are with your family . RIP Brian .

My dearest sister Lotte and sweet Patrick,  I am so sorry that you have lost a wunderful  husband and father.  I remember Brian as a kind and gentle man. When talking with him he made me forget that I am actually somewhat shy.  25 years ago I was present at your wedding, Lotte, it was difficult for our parents and me that you were going to live so far away, but Brian immediately won me over when I met him. During the vacations spent in Michigan,  California and later Wisconsin when I stayed at your house with Sander and Maarten, Brian was a perfect host. He understood how important it was for us, Lotte to spend time together and he gave us plenty opportunity to do so. Brian always made people feel good about themselves,  made them feel relaxed and at ease.   I remember the gentle and patient way Brian was talking with Sander and Maarten, genuinly interested in what they were telling him.    Dear sister and Patrick,  we know how great his love was for you.  We will greatly miss him.  Love ,   Charly,  Annette, Sander and Maarten.

Dear Lotte, Patrick and family, So unreal this dark news that Brian passed away so sudden and totally unexpexted. No words can be found to express the sadness we feel. We knew Brian as a very warm and loving husband and father. He was proud of and commited to his familiy. To others Brian always was very ,friendly and genuinely interested.Lotte, I rember how excited and proud my daughters, Danielle en Desiree, were being your bridesmaids durimg your wedding ceremony in The Netherlands, And a beautiful ceremony it was! I also have warm memories about the time Brian and you, Lotte, visited me in Las Vegas where we had some quality time together over a nice dinner togehter. We also had a good time at the 85th birthday celebration of our mom in Mijdrecht, where Brain and you Partick and Lotte were present. Brian and Carin talked about many beautiful places in the US. We will rememberr Brian as a warm and moddest person, a gentleman and in for a good laugh. Brian, dear brother in law you will be missed. Jan & Carin