Obituary of Brian W. Lavan

Brian W. Lavan was born on April 21, 1943, in Cleveland, Ohio. He lived in Winsted, Connecticut, until age 12 and then primarily in Irondequoit, where he remained until his passing on March 4, 2026, at the age of 82.

Brian was predeceased by his parents, James H. Lavan and Kathryn “Kaye” Lavan Francis; his brother, Gary P. Lavan; and his beloved son, Michael B. Lavan.

He will be deeply missed by his wife of 63 years, Judy Shields Lavan. Brian is also survived by his daughters, Michele Gaziano (Randy) and Kelly Saner (Jason); his daughter‑in‑law, Lucy Gotham Lavan; his grandchildren, Ryan and Brittany Gaziano, and Charlotte and Jack Saner; and his nieces, Jennifer, Sara, and Erin Lavan.

Affectionately known as “Big Bri” or “B.L.,” Brian attended Irondequoit High School, Cornwall Academy, and Dean College for Commercial Art in Massachusetts. He was a talented baseball pitcher and a gifted artist. Brian joined the Teamsters and worked for Penn Yan Express in Rochester for many years.

Brian was an avid race‑car enthusiast, a devoted history buff, and a passionate collector of memorabilia. He enjoyed watching football, loved fishing, and had a deep appreciation for music. He had an extraordinary memory—especially for song lyrics and the artists who performed them. Some of his happiest moments were spent fishing with his children on Canandaigua Lake or Lake Ontario, and competing together in the fishing derby at Powder Mill Park. He took great pride in his son earning his racing license and cherished watching him race at Watkins Glen.

Family and friends may call on Saturday, March 14th, from 2:00–5:00 PM at Paul W. Harris Funeral Home, 570 Kings Highway South, Rochester, NY 14617.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the National Warplane Museum in Geneseo, NY, or to a charity of your choice in Brian’s memory.