Brian Ernest Bretzke

Bretzke, Brian Ernest “Beanie” “Bear” of Linden, Michigan age 74, ended his journey here Thursday, September 14, 2023 at his home surrounded by his entire family. Funeral services will be held 11 am Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at Sharp Funeral Homes, Fenton Chapel, 1000 W. Silver Lake Rd., Fenton, MI 48430. Visitation will be held from 4-8 pm Monday, September 18, 2023 and from 10-11 am Tuesday at the Funeral Home. The youngest of three children, Brian was born in Holly, MI on April 6, 1949, son of the late Paul and Fern (Smith) Bretzke.  He was a longtime Fentonite who grew up exploring the land of Dauner Road and fishing in the many lakes of Fenton with his big brother, Bruce.  We won’t mention the moonshine those boys made and rolled into Dollar Lake to elude trouble. Brian was a 1967 graduate of Fenton High School where he took pride in holding the prestigious honor of Drum Major in the band.  There’s also a story of him knocking out the windows of the press box with back to back homeruns. Brian continued his education at the University of Michigan where he studied Psychology.  It was there that Brian met the love of his life, Polly Stockton.  In 1971, the two were married, they had four children together.  Brian was an officer of the law and then became a business owner.  He ran and operated Stockton Office Systems with his family for many years before retiring to become a “stay at home Dad”. Brian was well known for being a storyteller.  He had a way of pulling you into his stories with the perfect pause for effect. You never really knew if any of them were true, but there was always a chance.  Brian also had a twinkle in his eyes that never dulled, leaving you thinking, “There must be something else up that sleeve of his”.   Brian enjoyed cheering on his children and grandbabies in their many sports endeavors.  He never missed a game whether he was sitting in the stands or watching on GameChanger.  He had a knack for making you feel important. Brian was unapologetically himself.  Material things never mattered to him.  In fact, he would’ve worn the same clothes for months if Polly had allowed.  (We’re glad she never did.). Most importantly though, Brian had an unwavering love for his family.  This shined through in his every action and word.  We were all blessed to have been loved by him.  Heaven just got a little more colorful. Brian is survived by his loving and devoted wife Polly (Stockon), children Paul (Staci) Bretzke, Rebecca (Adam) Heil, Katie (Mike) Matosz, Andy (Allison) Bretzke, grandbabies Austin, Adelynn, Avery, Jamison, Henry, Luca, Elouise, Jaxson, and baby boy “arriving soon” as well as his in-laws Peggy Crane, Thomas Murphy, Pam (Danny) Brady and many beloved nieces and nephews.  Brian was preceded in death by his parents Paul and Fern Bretzke and siblings June Pribramsky and Bruce Bretzke. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the family to distribute to local youth sports organizations as Brian had a passion for youth sports. Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com