Brian Anthony Schug passed away peacefully at his home, just as he had wanted. He was surrounded by his beloved wife, Julie, his precious dogs, Valentine and Fancy, and niece, Lori on January 21, 2022. Brian was born on February 25,1947 to Helen and Walter Schug of Niagara Falls, New York. He was the 4th of 7 children.
In death, Brian was reunited with his mother Helen, father Walter, brother Albert and beloved niece Bridget. He is survived by his loving wife Julie, his brothers Alan (Maureen), Eric (Tami), Mark and his sisters Judy (Fran) and Jeannie (Paul). Also surviving are his sons Brian Jr. (Mona) and David (Loretta), his daughters Megan (Whitney) and Rosie (Drake). His grandchildren include Anthony, Jessica, Jake, Ellie, Zoe and Zeke. Brian was a very special uncle to Cathy, Karen, Kelly, Michelle, Paula, Andrea, Julie, Susan, Lori, Meredith, Stephen, Libby, Michael, Jennifer, Eric, Heather, and Hillary. He was always there to support his huge family in any way possible, but he specialized in confidence building, loving advice and resume writing!
Brian lived all over this wonderful country from Niagara Falls to Las Vegas, Tucson, Atlanta, Scottsdale, Mesa and Apache Junction. He was known as the resident handyman wherever he lived. He could literally fix anything, cars, computers, plumbing, electrical, drywall, landscaping etc, and did so for anyone that asked, without ever asking for anything in return. He went through a time when he was Clark Griswald and challenged himself to put more and more Christmas lights on his house every year, eventually getting to over 10,000 lights! Brian made some mistakes, but he never defined himself by them and over time he truly became a man of integrity and grace.
Brian originally worked as a land surveyor, his favorite job, because he was outside and was in the best shape of his life. However, he spent the majority of his career in the telecommunications industry, both in sales and management. He worked for big companies like Sprint and many small startups. Brian was well respected wherever he went because he respected others, no matter their circumstance. Brian could sell a fudge popsicle to a woman wearing white gloves. He was charismatic, handsome, and beyond witty. He could tell a joke without breaking character, to the point that he would have his audience in stitches at the punchline. He was hilarious!
After many attempts at love, Brian finally found the love of his life, Julie, whom he married in 2005 after over a decade together. Julie was a God send to Brian. She is the reason he lived 10 years longer than any doctor ever thought he would. We are all so grateful for her.
Brian will be deeply missed by all of his family as well as the many friends he had throughout his life. His lifelong friends, horseshoe buddies, his coworkers, his employees, always held Brian in high regard. He was a man that took the time to really listen, never diluting the truth you needed to hear, and always meeting everyone on their level, with love and honesty.
In lieu of flowers, please consider sending memorial gifts or cards to:
Julie Schug
10220 E Apache Trail
Lot 216
Apache Junction, AZ 85120
My brother Brian will be greatly missed by all of us.. Rest in peace dear brother. Always in my heart and prayers.
Your sis, Judy
We love you Uncle Brian. Rest In Peace with Our Lord and Savior. Until we meet again. Xxoo
Happy that Dad had a full life. Wish we had more time together……
Brian was a formidable force in my life, teaching me and many others critical aspects of problem solving, sales and life. I am forever grateful for having known and been mentored by him. Sympathies to Julie and all who loved him. Will celebrate his amazing presence in this world on March 20th.
Brian was more than an inspiration to me, he was the best manager and leader I have had my entire life. His perspective of everything was always turned into a positive. I’m sad we didn’t keep in touch for many years. He surely will be missed.
Brian was a great friend and one of the funniest person I have knew. The obituary captures his warm spirit.
Good bye Brian.. another light cut short
I hung with Brian in Tucson, initially at Chances, later at Filth McNasty’s. He, Joe, and I had some exciting episodes in the late 70’s, and my memories are still vivid. I was sorry to hear of his passing, condolences to his family. Rest assured we always had a good time when Brian was in the house.