Brendan Thomas Gilchrist
October 15, 1994 - February 26, 2018
Brendan Thomas Gilchrist, age 23, died in a tragic accident on February 26, 2018. Adopted at birth on October 15, 1994, by his loving parents Robert "Bob" Gilchrist and Mary Gilchrist. He was always in a hurry, starting to run at age 10 months. He spent a happy childhood skiing at age 3 and playing every sport.
Brendan attended Skyline High School. He was on a first name basis with almost everyone there, including the principal. He was not a student, but did squeeze almost every ounce he could out of high school.
Brendan was at Dixie College in St. George for a year and then came home to SLC. He lived downtown and worked at many clothing stores. He was a born salesman. He loved clothes and was always in style. He loved to get his hair cut at Ray's. He recently found true happiness working in food service at Grand America, Homies & Lake Effect. He was always a hard worker.
Brendan had a huge heart. He was a friend to everyone he met. He had time to talk to anyone. He was also unfortunately always the life of the party and would spend his last dime buying another round.
Brendan had an addiction to alcohol. He wrestled with this demon for the last 5 years of his life. Eventually the demon won and he left this earth. He now can put those demons to rest.
Brendan will be missed by his parents, his biological parents Patrick & Dina in California, his brother John, his niece Izzy and her mother Siera, Uncle Tom and Aunt Marja Driver, Cousin Danielle and all his other relatives. He will be missed even more by all of his friends. Rest in peace Brendan; we love you.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the National Ability Center or Odyssey House.
A celebration for Brendan will be held on Wednesday, March 7, 2018 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the complimentary valet parking on the north side on building. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, March 8, 2018 at 2:00 pm at St. Catherine of Siena Newman Center, 170 South University Street, Salt Lake City.
In Loving Memory
Bob and Mary, We are so sorry to see the obituary for Brendan. Parent's should never have to experience the loss of a child. A sad tragedy. Our hearts go out to you. Noel and Susan
Noel Williams
Herriman, UT
Bob and Mary: I can't even remotely imagine how you must be suffering. My heart and hugs go out to you. 💐
Suzann Withers
SLC, UT
Dear Bob and Mary, I was so shocked to see your son's obituary in the paper. I fondly remember all of you together at the Newman Center for Mass when the boys were young. My heart and prayers are with you all during this unimaginably difficult time for comfort and peace with time.
Kristen Keefe
Salt Lake City, UT
Dear Mary and Bob, Our hearts go out to you two as well as John at this terribly difficult time. May you hold on to the good memories and feel peace and comfort, with time. Fondly, Roger & Karen
Roger & Karen Cutler
Salt Lake City, Ut
Dear Gilchrist Family, I just wanted to let you know that I care about your sorrow. It is so hard to lose a family member...a hole that never quite gets filled back in. I pray the blessings of the Lord can give you peace in this difficult time. I was the hygienist at Dr. Smith's office until I retired.
Malayna Stromness
Woods Cross, UT
I am so sorry for your loss! I taught Brendan in both 3preK and kindergarten at the JCC. I will always remember Brendan's twinkling eyes and cute smile.
Margaret Chapman
Salt Lake City, UT
I am a stranger, but I want to thank you for your honesty about the struggles of your son. Your mention of Odyssey House indicates a bit of the support you tried to offer him. Your openness will help more parents than you will ever know.
Sherry McMullin
nan, nan
Mary and Bob: My most sincere condolences to you and your family. Such a tragic loss. You are in my thoughts. Take care all, Brenda Koga
Brenda Koga
Salt Lake City, Ut
Bob and Mary, My very deepest sympathy. A loss of a child ranks at the top of the deepest regrets. I'm so sorry for this incredible loss. God bless you during this difficult time.
pamela A. Jensen
Salt Lake City, ut
I was saddened to learn of Brendan's death. I met both sweet boys at your house when they were very young. I know he will be missed. My thoughts are with your family at this very difficult time.
Mary Jo Kleinschmidt
Salt Lake City, UT
My heart is breaking for the Gilchrist family. Please know I am thinking of you with the most compassionate of thoughts and prayers. I wish there was more I could do, but please know I love you all. Love, Cousin Ann
Ann Jordan Umbaugh
Avondale Estates, GA
To the Gilchrist family, you don't know me, but I knew your son Brendan because we worked at the same establishment, at one time he was always, helpful and charming will always ask if I needed anything when he was going on lunch breaks, he was always respectful and kind, I was saddened to hear of his passing, may your family have the comfort you need at this trail time and may brendan be at rest until he meets his maker in heaven. Amen
Quintin Hunte
Salt Lake City, Ut
My condolences to the family on the loss of your loved one. Losing someone you love is truly difficult and I know Brendan will be missed. Please know our Heavenly Father holds out promises that can help us with our sorrow. One such promise is that death soon will be done away with forever (Revelation 21:4) and another promise is that "there is going to be a resurrection." (Acts 24:15) I pray these promises from God, who cannot lie, (Titus 1:2) bring you comfort.
J. Miles
nan, nan
Bob and Mary I am so sorry to read Brandon's obituary. I can just see him in Newman Center's Religious Education classes. He always had a way of making me laugh. Parents should not have to bury a child. My prayers and love are with you.
Pat Salser
Salt Lake City, Ut
I read your touching obituary in the Tribune and it broke my heart. I too recently lost my 26-year-old, beautiful, loving, talented, creative son. He was on his way to an AA meeting at the Alano Club when he was struck and killed by a TRAX train. He was sober at the time, but struggled for many years with alcohol. I love your son's beautiful smile in the obit photo and hearing about his life. I have had many profound experiences since my son's passing that have convinced me that he is still around in spirit and I will see him again. I hope this is of some comfort to you. Peace be with you.
Angela Kirk
Draper, Ut