I knew Brett for just a short time, but he was a great person to be around. I will miss him.

Dear Kirgis Family,

We want to express our sincere condolences to your family. It is especially hard to send a young person to the Lord. May you feel Jesus' loving arms around you and bring you peace knowing Brett is with God.

Dick and Lois Quinn

Grant, Penny, Lisa and Family,

My heart and Prayers go out to you all.. I am so honored to know such a wonderful young man for many years.  May God Bless you.  I am very sorry for your loss.  I will keep all of you in my prayers.  Love you all

Kris Holtorf

Dear Grant & Penny,

My sincerest and deepest sympathy for the loss of your son.  I didn't know Brett, but I sure wish I did.  What a fantastic man!  I only knew of Brett through Denise.  You must be so proud of the fine son that you raised!

May the Lord lay his loving and healing hands upon you and bless you with comfort, peace and joy again in your life.

Sincerely,

Laurie O'Hara  (Sister of Denise Heublein)

To the Kirgis family,

First, I'd like to send my condolences to all of you and to all of those who loved Brett. I just moved to MN a month ago and met Brett only once, although his name was in several conversations of mine with a mutual friend. I had only needed to meet this wonderful man only once to see what a gift from God he was. He showed me in the few hours that I was blessed to have with him, how truely great he was and how much I wish I had the chance to have gotten to know him more. Meeting him has made me want to become a better and more giving and happy person. Although he will be missed my many, God has received one of the best men I have EVER known. May God bless and comfort you all.

Please accept my condolences for your loss.

 I wanted to share a few of the ways my life is richer because I knew Brett Kirgis:

To describe a man like Brett Kirgis, words like -kind, thoughtful, funny, generous, helpful- they come close, but do not really do him justice.

This was a man who would drive out of his way every day to pick me up so i did not have to take a bus to work in the cold, and refuse to take any money for it ("just pick up some breakfast once in awile Girl") A man who would take me grocery shopping and remember the things I had mentioned I needed because he knew I would never write them down. ("Don't forget to get bar-b-que sauce for the Mentor Potluck") 

This job is a much less fun place to be without him there. It is easy to imagine him telling me not to sit home and cry about him ("you have a goal to hit, Girl") He was the most selfless person I have ever known.

Your family is in my prayers.

I met Brett in 1st Grade and have many great memories of him beginning in Cub Scouts where Brett's dad was our scout leader, through St. Pius and Lourdes, and including our time on the golf team together.  He was a one in a billion character -- always ready with a joke and a laugh -- and I'm a richer person for having known him.

Tom Ernste

Grant, Penny, Lisa and extended family: 

Words are not sufficient at a time like this!  May God wrap you in His loving arms, may you feel His peace that passes all understanding, and may you rejoice in the memory and footprint that Brett left on this earth!   Brett was a combination of all of the good qualities of you two!  You did a great job!   God's blessings and peace on you at this difficult time!  May God's word comfort you and give you something to cling to.  Psalm 139: 1-18. 

Grant and Penny,

I am so sorry about to hear about the death of your kind, loving, wonderful son.   To lose someone at

such a young age is painful, unexplanable and makes you wonder why these things happen.

You are two of the nicest, caring and loving people i know.  And your son was someone you are so proud

of for everything he accomplished.   Most importantly, his laugh and smile and always willing to help anyone

are qualities that he picked up from you his parents.

He was taken so soon - God must have a great plan for him.   I will pray for you every day.  

I am so sorry.   God Bless you.

Mary Fischenich

My condolences to family.  Brett will be dearly missed by many. I will miss his big hugs and his big heart.  

To Brett's Family

I would like to offer my sincere condolences for your loss.  Brett was such a great man!  He always had a smile on his face.  He always told me that he wanted to Thank my husband for his service and defending our country.  Brett got to finally meet my husband a few weeks ago, when he was home on leave.  Now I would like to say Thank You Brett for always coming to work and lifting each one of our spirits when we were having a rough day or just in a bad mood.  I hope you keep us safe and watch over us each day.  May your memory be eternal.

This is so hard to write. I am truly saddened by the irreparable loss of a great human being. Brett, you will always live in the hearts that had the honor to meet you. May the "MOST HIGH" bless you & your family always....

Dear Grant, Penny, and Lisa,  My heartfelt sympathy goes to you at this time.  May God keep His loving arms around you and give you peace. 

My thoughts and prayers go out to you all.  All of our love Kim and Mark Fritzlar.

The Kirgis Family

Extending our heart felt sympathy to your family.

Sincerely,

Barb and George

(Harold Jones' daughter)

Dear Grant and Penny,

I was so sad to hear of Brett's death.  Your grief must be overwhelming.  I wanted you to know that I am thinking of you and praying for the Lord's grace upon you at this time and going forward.

Love, Ginny

Mr and Mrs Kirgis,

I was a teammate of Bretts at RCC.  Although he was not the most talented player on the field, he showed up to every practice and worked his ass off.  All the time knowing that he probably would never play a down in a game.  I am now a high school football coach and dream of having players such as Brett.  I have had a number of players quit because they weren't getting playing time, and it wasn't worth the work they put in.  Players like Brett, who come to practice every day to help for the greater good of the team, are what make good teams, GREAT.  My thoughts and prayers are with you.  RIP young man, and say hi to Coach K for me.

Pete Range

Dear Kirges Family,

I remember Brett at LHS as I had him as a student.  I remember his compassion towards me as I was not familiar with teaching and he picked up on this.  he was one of my better students.  I will hold Brett up in prayer as you experience this difficult time.  Always remember---He is risen!

Prayers,

Fr. Russell Scepaniak

   Penny and Grant:  

          I am sorry to hear about your loss.  I didn't really know Brett but it sounds like he was doing well.

Wishing the best to all family members and for the needed strength to deal with this sad event.

                                                                                                              Jim

Penny and Grant

I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of your son, Brett.  My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this very sad time.

Kathy

Penny, I'm so sorry to learn of the death of your son.   You have my sympathy.   Alice Davis

Our deepest condolences go out to you for your recent loss.
Brett was a wonderful resident and will be greatly missed.

Sincerely,

Lemay Lake Team.

Dear Penny and Grant,

I am so sorry to hear of Bretts' passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

As ever, Betty Winkler

Dear Penny and Grant,

I am so sorry to hear of Bretts' passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

As ever, Betty Winkler

I want to express my sympathy for your loss of Brett.  I worked with Brett at the Smiling Moose.  He was always fun to work with, very nice and so helpful to others.  My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Sincerely-

Trisha Prescher

Brett was such a great guy - he made work enjoyable and he will be greatly missed.

Grant & Penny, our deepest sympathy to both of you and your family on the loss of Brett.  Know our prayers are with you.

I am saddened by the news of Brett's passing. Brett was a kind man who gave so much of himself to others. He will be missed. I am praying for Brett's family and friends who are mourning his passing. May God comfort you in this time. 

Smiling Moose co-worker and friend,

Laurie

Grant & Penny, our condolences to both of you and your family on the loss of Brett.  Our deepest sympathy.

Penny and Grant,

We are so sorry to hear of your loss.  Our prayers and thoughts are with you all at this difficult time.

Our condolences to your family during this difficult time.  We have many fond memories of Brett growing up across the street.  May God provide you peace and comfort.

The Bergs

Penny, Grant and Lisa:  You are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers in the loss of Brett.  It's so very hard to lose a part of your family so young or anytime.  Peace be with you all.  Very sincerely, Kathy & Larry Norby

I want to write and express my sincere condolences for your loss.  I also want to thank you for raising such an amazing man.  His love and kindness overwhelmed me everytime I was near him.  Not to mention getting lost in his hugs when you were down or even the times of celebration.  Brett was a great friend and always willing to enjoy our work day.   My life will forever be much better for having know Brett.  My thoughts and prayers to you

Iam so sorry for the loss of such a GREAT man. He was a joy to all who were around him, he always had a helping hand if you needed it. Always a joy to be around he will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with Brett's family at this time of sorrow. He will truly be missed!

Brett,

I'm at a loss for words because there are no words to discribe the impact you made on earth. I want to express my condolences to Brett's family for thier loss. I know your in Heaven with a big smile on your face. I will never forget you and will carry on your random acts of kindness. Thank you for being you!

Penny, Grant, Lisa, and the entire Kirgis and Berndt families:

There are really no words to express how sad I feel for you and yours.  The loss of a child makes absolutely no sense to our brains or our hearts.  

My thoughts and prayers are with you all, and I pray The Good Lord will bless you with wonderful memories and comfort during this very, very difficult time.  There is no doubt that Brett was a remarkable person .... just like his parents.  Please take care of each other...

I am so sorry. 

I had the pleasure of working with Brett and I will truly miss his infectious personality and spirit.  Brett was such a positive force and he touched so many people here at DCM.  Brett's four alarm chili is the best I have ever had and I am glad he gave me the recipe.  We will miss Brett dearly but his light will shine on in heaven and he will be as beloved there as he was on earth. 

My condolences to Brett's family during this difficult time.  My thoughts and prayers are with you.   

My heart is heavy for the family and friends of Brett. So sorry to hear of this great loss. I had the pleasure of sitting next to him at DCM for several months. He was so gracious and giving. He would step out of himself in a heartbeat to help someone else who needed it. By the looks of things he touched many lives and will not be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Lisa,

My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.

Brett,

I will miss our random chats in the break room and throughout the office. Your ear to ear smile always left me happy to have seen you that day...you will be truly missed my friend.

Best regards, your buddy - Haas

What do you write about someone who was so wonderful? Brett had such an impact on many lives. He was never in a bad mood, and cared about everyone more than himself. He gave me the nickname of "Tink", which a few people still call me. He has been there for me through some hard times, and always made sure to ask me how I was doing.

The office is so quiet without him. I can't think of one person that was more selfless than him. Brett will surely be missed.

I want to extend my sincere condolences to Brett's family during this difficult time.

Rest in peace, dear friend. Love you buddy.

Brett was an absolute gift. He was such a joyful, ambitious, passionate, and compassionate man. His energy and optimism were infectious. Many times he made me laugh. Many times he answered my questions; borrowed me a dollar to use at the vending machine; many times he came along side me and the rest of us to do everything in his power to help.

My last memory of Brett was of him orchestrating a beautiful deed for a single mother with, I believe, three children. He organized a Christmas celebration for her and her kids that I'm sure they'll never forget. Brett raised enough funds to bring in "TONS" of goceries, necessities, and gifts for the children. As he described this to me he was beaming with happiness. He was SO happy to help. Anyone, anytime.

I'm glad I can say that I knew Brett Kirgis. He made an unforgettable impact.

So sorry to hear of Brett's passing. He was always so full of life and smiles. 

My deepest sympathy.

Grant, Penny and Lisa,

We were deeply saddened to hear of Brett's passing and your loss. We will keep all of you and your extended family in our prayers. May time heal your sorrow. Guy and Laurie Griesmann

Penny and family,

I am so sorry for your loss.  I remember Brett from Lourdes, and my husband, Josh remembers working with him on the football team.  We are keeping you all in our prayers.

Shannon

Sorry to hear of your loss, please accept Tom and my prayers to console your family.  Tom & Denise DeRienzo

We were shocked to hear of your loss.  Our prayers and condolences are with you at this time of sorrow.

Dave and Mary Styczinski

I didn't have the pleasure of getting to know Brett, but from the sounds of it I really missed out!  Having lost several dear friends and family members of my own, I know how hard it can be to lose someone, especially someone who gave their heart and happiness to so many like Brett did and I am truly sorry for that loss and for the heartbreak his family, friends and everyone at DCM who did know him must be feeling right now.  May all who loved him find a way to be at peace through the wonderful memories they have of him.

I can't believe you are no longer with us. Who is going to bring me those delicious meatballs??? I will admit I ate more than my fair share during our Mentor meeting no surprise the crockpot was bone dry afterwards. You were quite the cook. I couldn't resist. Thank you for forcing me to eat spicy chili :)

You were such a joy to work around. You completely deserved the Happy Camper award, you earned it.  All the time we sat and chatted about the ole Rochester days both being in the bar industry, we couldn't believe what a small world it was. Oh the McMurphy's days!!! I still miss the Smiling Moose :) I'm not sure who missed it more.

My sincerest condolences to your family for this tragic loss. It is an insurmountable loss. You will be missed by everyone who ever got to know you. As a Buddhist I am confident in saying your next life will be even more amazing and fulflling!!!! You got that good Karma Brett and it will come back around for ya. Namaste to your family and friends, let this be a celebration of your life. You would want it that way :) Peace be with you  my friend you are forever in my heart.

There are no words that capture the joy, happiness and spirit that Brett brought to our Company and employees each and every day. I can honestly say no one could have ever imagined what an impact he would have on us and how his passing has left a hole in our hearts. 

I spoke to Brett for the first time on October 11, 2011 for our Account Representative position. I know this because every time he saw me he'd always remind me by saying "ahh there's the girl I owe for giving me a chance" but in reality it was Brett who gave us a chance....

A chance to see what true friendship means, what integrity really looks like, how honesty is always the best policy, how to be loyal until the end, what enthusiasm can bring to team, how a smile can brighten even the darkest days, how to share unconditionally and to feel compassion for those less fortunate....

So you see in the end... it was Brett who gave all of us a chance to have him in our lives...if even only for a short time and because of him we are truly blessed. 

Thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.

Lorri Benson

As I suspected, there would be many kind words about Brett.  I found it very difficult yesterday ,as we got the news, to be strong.  As I came into work this morning, there was a definate difference to the atmosphere here in that we loss a huge part of what made is so easy to come to work.  We will eventually get that back but it will take a very long time.  I just wanted to be sure that the family knew exactly how he touched everyone here at work.  I will miss him as many other will.  My condolences goes out to the family in this tough time. 

There are no words to describe just how great of a guy Brett was.  He was a bright light to everyone who knew him and never had anything negative to say, ever.  The loss of someone so encouraging and positive in the world is absolutely devastating.  I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. Those of us who had the pleasure of working with him will greatly miss his uplifitng presence.  Again, my deepest sympathies as I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers. 

God Bless,

Lora

To Brett's family,

I will miss Brett at work.  He was always upbeat.  He would banter with me anytime I came through his area.  He truly deserved the award he won last week for being such a positive influence on others.  He made the lives of others better by being here.  Please let that give you some comfort in this sad time. 

I was so shocked when I found out on Monday. I'm so sorry for your loss! Brett was such a kind man. I worked with him for close to a year and he was always willing to help out his co-workers and always made new faces feel welcome. I enjoyed trash-talking football with him in the morning when we would first get to work. He always tried to help me out if he had a linked account that I could work. He had such a big heart and he was so kind! We all lost a true friend. He will be greatly missed!

I'm so sorry for your loss...Brett was kind enough to help me out for a couple of years while in the St. Pius Troop 210 Boy Scouts, and I also knew him since I was in Lisa's class in grade school and high school.  My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.  --Michael Johnson