Brian Kenneth Jenkins

Brian Kenneth Jenkins was born on the 13th of July 1954, in Hollywood, California, the third of six children born to Darlene Jenkins Marshall and Clinton Chester Jenkins. He is survived by his children, Casey Jenkins, Heather Olsen, and David Jenkins; his grandson, Beau J. Olsen; and siblings Christine J. Francis, Bruce Jenkins, Donald Jenkins, and Lynn Jenkins. He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Douglas Jenkins, nephew Chad Jenkins, niece Alyssa Jenkins, son-in-law Christopher Olsen, and grandsons Brayden Olsen and Dustin Jenkins. He is also survived by his extensive AA family, who showed him great love and support through many difficult times.

Growing up, Brian was a powerhouse and fiercely protective of those around him. As a sophomore in high school, he started as a running back on the football team and was a top wrestler on the varsity team. His younger brothers loved watching him use the "cow catcher" to pin opponents in the first round. Brian was a fighter, physically and mentally, and got into many fights, but mainly he was sticking up for the underdog. He was also a comedian who loved making people laugh.

Brian later started his own masonry business, employing family members as his hod tenders. To him, bricklaying was an art, not just a job. He was a perfectionist who took great pride in his craft. His curiosity about people led him to spend 24 hours on the streets of Salt Lake City interviewing homeless residents and then go on to write an article for the newspaper sharing what he had learned. He also painted watercolors, always drawn to beauty in unexpected places.

Brian loved the water. Whether in the ocean or fresh water, he always searched out the next swimming hole or wave to body surf. He loved sharing this with his family. He was the kind of man who dove to the bottom and came back up holding a rock, just to show you it could be done. One of his nephews credits him with getting him over his fear of diving. Brian had a way of convincing people they were capable of more than they thought.

As a father, he taught us the principles we each live by today – a respect for animals and nature, the value of hard work and a strong work ethic, how not to judge others, and the importance of forgiveness. He taught us to fish and to camp, leaving no trace, and how to maintain our vehicles. He made people laugh, and he made them feel capable. That was Brian.

He will be deeply missed.

The family will be holding a celebration of life to honor Brian. The details for this event will be announced at a later time.

Condolences for the family may be expressed on this page.