Bryan Haakenson

Bryan Dean Haakenson, 42, of Brainerd, died Sunday, January 18, 2015 at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis, MN. Memorial Services will be held at 1:00 PM, Monday, February 9, 2015 at the Brenny Funeral Chapel in Baxter. Family and friends are invited to gather one hour prior to services. Interment will take place at a later date at Wildwood Cemetery in Pillager.

Bryan was born January 6, 1973, in Kenmare, ND, the son of Donald and Birdie (Peterson) Haakenson. He graduated from Upham High School in 1991. Bryan had many favorites - Hershey's chocolate, Mountain Dew, Chinese Food, making Meatloaf and the color green. But nothing compared to his friendships. He treasured them and they him. Bryan was a great friend. He was protective of those close to him and he was always there to lend a hand. He liked to go bowling, and to the movies - especially animated Disney and Pixar films. Bryan enjoyed Hot Turkey Sandwiches at Front Street Café, and playing Bingo and Sequence. Bryan loved listening to old country music by Hank Williams, Jr., Kenny Rogers, and Willie Nelson. These musicians always brought a smile to his face, but not as much enjoyment as when he listened to local musician Wayne Renn. He was Bryan's favorite. Bryan's other favorite friends were his cat, Pebbles and rabbit, Will who were constant sources of joy and entertainment.

Bryan's greatest hope was that his children knew how important they were to him and how much he loved them.

He is survived by his mom, Birdie; his children, Christopher, Jonathon, Sara Kay Ann, and Marylin; sister, Mary Thompson; nieces and nephews, and close friends, Vicki Liebeg, Theresa Felsheim, Jennifer Prueser Brooke Rooney, and many more friends and family.

Send Memorials to the American Brain Tumor Association (www.abta.org)