Brian Swartz, a legend with his belly laughs, unrestrained spirit, thoughtfulness and generosity passed away on March 24, 2025, after a courageous journey with brain cancer. He was 61.
Brian found the love of his life early. From November 29, 1986, Brian and Alisa, lived what they called a “39-year honeymoon.” Their partnership was rooted in laughter, affection, mutual admiration, and awe for the life they were building together. Brian held the “treasure map” to Alisa’s laughter, and together they took unconventional paths and crazy adventures. Brian was a deeply engaged and loving father. He showed Alexa, Cayli and Jacob how to live heart forward, how to be present, how to care deeply and how to laugh hard. Brian’s legacy of love lives on not only through his children, but also through his sister, Cindy; his mother-in-law, Barbara Millstein; his brother- and sister-in-law, Mark Millstein and Christine Carter; his nieces and nephews, Macie, Tanner, Fiona, and Molly; and a huge circle of friends.
Professionally, Brian was a mensch and a true connector. With over 30 years of experience across the non-profit, private, and public sectors, his impact was felt throughout the Bay Area. Mill Valley always held a special place in Brian’s heart, where he was honored as Citizen of the Year, created the city’s 100th anniversary celebration, served on the boards of the Mill Valley School District and The Redwoods, worked on the capital campaign for the Mill Valley Library, enthusiastically coached rec soccer and basketball, and brought a steady current of positive energy to his children’s community. In the larger community, Brian served on the board of Community Action Marin and worked closely with homeless shelters including New Beginnings Center, Shelter Network, Turning Point Shelter, Marin Continuum of Housing, and Samaritan House. Guided by a deep belief that community is built through showing up and staying engaged, Brian focused on outcomes, compassion for the underserved, and creative problem-solving to everything he touched.
Brian’s unrelenting spirit defined his last 9 months. Even in the face of illness, he managed to maintain his deeply rooted love and laughter and approach every day with his personal credo to live “The Best Day Ever”. In every way imaginable, Brian’s lifelong friends showed up and as a family we are beyond grateful for their support and outpouring of love.
Though Brian’s physical journey has ended, his memory will continue to grow through the generations he deeply influenced. If you would like to make a donation in Brian’s honor, the family has set up a foundation to help individuals transition from homeless shelters to permanent housing. To make a donation or connect with the family directly, feel free to email: InMemoryofBrianSwartz@gmail.
March 24th marks one year since his passing.
